Thieves struck at an 18th century Dudley church to steal a handbag belonging to a bride-to-be who was being photographed outside.

It happened at St Edmund King & Martyr Church in Castle Street yesterday and police are investigating whether it is linked to a similar theft at the Baptist Church in Priory Road two days earlier.

The thefts were today condemned by the Bishop of Dudley the Rt Rev David Walker. He said: “It is particularly sad when it happens in a church.”

American-born Marcella Tozer, aged 49, had her handbag taken, containing £85 cash, credit cards and a mobile phone. She will wed former church warden Adrian Baillie, on July 4.

Insurance claims handler Mr Baillie, aged 46 , of Green Park Road, Kates Hill, said he was “sickened” someone could stoop so low.

He said: “What empty-minded people come into a church and steal? It’s absolutely disgusting.

“Marcella is in tears because she had £85 in her purse which she had saved for a pair of wedding shoes.”

Mr Baillie also says police told him a nearby CCTV camera which should have been monitoring the church is pointing the wrong way.

Anyone with information can call police on 0845 113 5000 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.