Cotswolds church targeted by smash and grab thieves

St John the Baptist Church in Kingscote, Tetbury
-Credit: (Image: Google Streetview)


Ecclesiastical silverware has been stolen from a Cotswolds church after thieves smashed through a window. The smash and grab theft happened at St John the Baptist Church in Kingscote, Tetbury, between 7pm on Thursday 20 June and 9am on Friday 21 June.

Officers from Gloucestershire Constabulary investigating the incident said the offenders are believed to have smashed a leaded window to gain entry to the church, before stealing a quantity of ecclesiastical silverware and a safe.

A spokesperson for the force said: "Enquiries are ongoing and officers from the Rural, Wildlife and Heritage Crime Team would like to hear from anyone who may have witnessed any suspicious activity in the area or who may have any relevant dashcam or doorbell footage."

Information can be submitted by completing the following form online and quoting incident 139 of 21 June: https://www.gloucestershire.police.uk/tua/tell-us-about/cor/tell-us-about-existing-case-report/