THIEVES have been condemned for stealing Yorkshire flagstones outside an historic Bradford church.

About 24 stones were taken from the pavement in Walshaw Street, Great Horton, over the last two weekends.

The theft happened outside St John's Church, whose grounds butt up on to Walshaw Street.

Church warden Peter Armstrong said thieves struck overnight on Saturday into Sunday, and also during the same time period the previous weekend.

"This weekend was the second lot that has gone," said Mr Armstrong. "It has happened on two consecutive weekends. About a dozen stones were taken last weekend and about the same the week before.

"Last year, some were taken during the day.

"It is a quiet area there, there are no houses facing where the stones were taken from.

"It just leaves a space of muck. As church warden, I am disgusted about it for a start.

"I am worried for the people who walk round that area. It is difficult now under foot. I worry for the congregation of St John's.

"We need it putting right and pretty quickly

He added: "I am hoping the Council come and take up the rest and take them to a park and relay them - somewhere else, somewhere safe.

"Because I presume the thieves will come back for the rest."

Mr Armstrong, who reported the thefts to police on Sunday, added: "They are really big, Yorkshire stone, flags - and very thick.

"They left one behind. I am assuming either they got disturbed or they could not lift it."

A Bradford Council spokesman said: "We have only just been made aware of this problem and a highways officer will inspect the area and arrange any necessary repairs to make the pavement safe for pedestrians.

"Obviously, we deplore such acts of vandalism and implore anyone who has any information relating to the incident to contact the police immediately."

A spokesman for West Yorkshire Police said the force was aware of the theft, but had no further information on it, and urged witnesses to come forward.

Anyone with information on the theft is asked to contact the police on 101. Alternatively, ring Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.