Thieves have targeted a church for the fourth time this year.

In the latest incident, raiders stripped lead from the roof and some steps at Holy Trinity Church, Cowling.

Vicar Canon Michael Cowgill said: “It is hugely disappointing. There is no lead left now and we will be replacing the roof with some other material that has no scrap value.

“We have put some preventative measures in place and I’m not sure what else we can do. It is sad that we have been targeted in this way and it makes it increasingly hard for the people trying to repair the roof and make it watertight.

“We have not got any money to deal with this at the moment but once we have decided what we are doing, we will launch an appeal.”

The latest incident happened between 10.30am on Sunday, March 20, and 7.30am on Wednesday, March 23.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Cross Hills Police on 0845 6060247.