press releases
warning: metal thieves target churches
Date: 30 August 2006
Ecclesiastical Insurance has received more than 90 claims in the past four-and-a-half months for theft of lead, copper and other metals from churches*.
Thieves have targeted churches in the Bristol, Sheffield and London areas, stealing lead cladding and guttering, copper piping, copper lightning conductors, and bronze statues and bells.
David Bonehill, Ecclesiastical’s chief claims manager, said: “The value of these materials for scrap is nothing compared to their value to the Church and community. These petty thieves are robbing our churches of irreplaceable heritage. One bell stolen this month dates from 1250. Communities need to rally round their churches, keeping an eye out and refusing to let thieves steal from under our noses.”
He offers this important advice for churches to prevent theft of materials:
Make friends with your neighbours – they’re the very best people to keep an eye out
Tell your neighbours when contractors will be visiting your Church
Encourage everyone to alert the vicar, churchwardens or neighbours if they see workmen at a church unexpectedly
Make the thieves' job more difficult – remove ladders to a secure place and consider using anti-climb paint.
· Don’t be afraid to dial 999.
For further information please contact:
Chris Pitt, Press Officer, Ecclesiastical Insurance Group
Tel: 01452 334984
Mobile 07730 068821
Email: pressoffice@eigmail.com
Visit www.ecclesiastical.com
Beaufort House, Brunswick Road, Gloucester, GL1 1JZ.
Notes to editors:
*These figures are taken from Anglican churches Ecclesiastical insures.
In most cases Churches can replace roofing material with modern materials. However, this may be subject to planning permission and diocesan approval.
ENDS
