A 16th Century bible is taken from a Gloucestershire church

The bible was printed in 1583 and gifted to the church 100 years ago

A 16th Century Bible has been stolen from a church in Gloucestershire.

The Geneva bible was taken from St Andrew's Church in Chedworth, where it was on display in a locked cabinet.

The bible is described as having dark red leather ornately tooled covers with a metal diamond shape and raised half sphere in the centre of the front cover.

The theft is believed to have taken place between 1300 and 1600 BST on 3 June.

'Sentimental value'

A Gloucestershire Police spokeswoman said: "The bible was printed in 1583 but was gifted to the church 100 years ago and is of great spiritual and sentimental value.

"It is ornately tooled all over - the spine is a later addition, and is pale tan leather with six raised bands on it.

"There are also two metal clasps, with which the bible can be sealed shut."

Police have asked anyone with information to call 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.