THIEVES have stolen an estimated £60,000 worth of lead from a church roof near Dorchester.

Police investigating the theft are appealing for witnesses or anyone with information to come forward.

Dorset Police said they received a report at 3.40pm on Monday March 16 that an estimated £60,000-worth of lead had been stolen from the roof of St Martin’s Church in Cheselbourne.

It is reported that the theft occurred between 9.30am on Sunday March 15 and 9.30am on Monday March 16.

Police Sergeant Andy Napper, of the Dorchester Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: “I am appealing to anyone who may have seen any suspicious activity in the Cheselbourne area during the relevant times to please get in touch.

“I am aware of another report of lead theft in the Dorchester area recently and I would like to reassure the public that an investigation is underway into both incidents.

“I would urge any residents to check their home CCTV or dashcams for any relevant footage to assist my enquiries.

“If you have any information about who is responsible, please contact Dorset Police.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk, via email 101@dorset.pnn.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55200040400. Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or via www.crimestoppers-uk.org.