Thousands of pounds worth of lead has been stolen by thieves from the roof of St Michael’s Church in Brent Knoll.
Police have issued an appeal for witnesses after the lead was removed overnight last week from the north aisle roof of the church in Brent Knoll’s Church Lane.
Talking to Burnham-On-Sea.com, Rev Kevin Wright, Priest-in-Charge of The Parish of Three Saints including Brent Knoll, has expressed his dismay at the incident.
He said: “On the night of 5th-6th August thieves stole lead from the north aisle roof. The theft became apparent when it rained heavily the following day and water poured through the roof, creating a river that flowed down the aisle.”
“Luckily the damage to church itself has been relatively light and swift action has been taken to cover the roof temporarily to prevent further damage by rain.”
Rev Wright added: “How people can choose to desecrate such an historic place of Christian worship in this way is beyond understanding.”
“If anybody is aware of any unusual activity that night in Brent Knoll please contact the Police. I would like to thank members of the congregation who helped clean up the mess created by the flood. Our church worship and activities will, of course, continue as normal.”
Police spokeswoman Jenny Bigwood told Burnham-On-Sea.com: “Overnight Monday 5th to Tuesday 6th August thieves stole lead from the roof of St Michael’s Church in Church Lane, Brent Knoll.”
“Anyone who noticed any suspicious activity in the area or who has any CCTV or dashcam footage which could help can get in touch with police here, or by calling 101, quoting reference 5219180429.”
The Friends of St Michael’s Church are currently raising funds to renew the lead on this particular roof.
This is being done because the roof lead needed replacement, and this is now urgent. Underneath the lead is a magnificent medieval ceiling dating to back to around 1490. This has 96 wooden panels, all carved in different patterns, and a series of unusual roof bosses. Twelve angels are set on both sides of the panels to guard the roof.
