Lancashire Police warning over church roof lead thefts

Lancashire Police have warned church leaders to be on their guards after a spate of lead thefts.

Officers have visited churches to raise awareness of an increase in the crime.

The action comes after St Joseph's RC Church on Bolton Road, in Anderton, had about 350ft (105m) of lead stolen from its roof.

Adlington community beat manager Pc Matthew Lee said patrols were being increased to prevent further thefts in the area.

"We would remind churches to be extra vigilant in relation to this type of crime, especially owners of older properties which may have lead on the roof, and we would ask residents to report any suspicious activity to us," he said.

"Churches can also look at their CCTV, security lighting and apply anti-vandal paint to help prevent them from being targeted."

Pc Kev Loughlin added: "This was a heartless crime involving such a historical building in a small community."