Decorative stones stolen from historic Walsall church leave worshippers distraught
Worshippers at a historic Walsall church have been left devastated by the theft of coping stones which decorated the front driveway.
Around 60 per cent of the decorative stones atop a wall were removed from the grounds of St Peter's Church, in Stafford Street, Birchills, some time between Wednesday July 9 and Thursday July 10.
The church had been open for worship the morning before and the stones were still in position on the driveway wall at that point.
Deacon Emma Holton explained that she discovered the theft when she arrived to open up the church.
She explained: "The coping stones at St Peter’s are heavy and removing them must have been quite a noisy undertaking, especially given the quantity that was taken.
“We were all pretty surprised to see that the stones were gone. I know that many in the congregation have been saddened by the damage because they have told me so.
"St Peter’s holds a special place for many in our area. It’s a sad reminder that this kind of heritage theft is pretty common and I really hope that others who are responsible for the care of historic buildings in our area will be vigilant over the summer months.”
A congregation regular, who didn't want to be named for fear of reprisals, said: "I don't know who would stoop so low as to steal from a place of worship, but I just hope the stones will be recovered as they provide a welcome to the church for visitors and parishioners alike."
West Midlands Police said the theft was being investigated. The force stated: " We received a report of moulded bricks being stolen from the driveway of a church situated in Stafford Street, Walsall. The theft is believed to have taken place between 1pm on July 9 and 9.15am the following morning.
Anyone with any information should contact us by ringing 101 quoting crime reference number 20/305468/25. Alternatively phone Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.
