THIEVES STEAL CASH FROM CHURCH
‘Disgraceful’ crime over the weekend
COMMUNITY leaders say they’re ‘appalled’ after thieves broke into a historic church by smashing a window and stole cash from collection boxes.
According to police, the break-in took place over the weekend at the historic St Cybi’s Church in Holyhead, making off with an unknown quantity of cash.
The incident took place just weeks after thousands of cans and bottles were recovered from the churchyard.
Police had already promised to clamp down on anti-social behaviour in the vicinity, but the latest incident has angered many.
Jeff Evans, a former county councillor, described the situation as ‘disgraceful,’ having spent a whole day clearing out the churchyard of litter recently, which has become a focal point for anti-social behaviour in the town centre.
“Its appalling isn’t it? Something has to be done to tackle this. Sadly, this isn’t the first time its happened,” said Mr Evans.
“We cannot allow this to continue, we will not allow it to continue and those who wish to carry out such attacks on the church, the town and society must be brought to task and answer for such behaviour.”
He added: “Its quite obvious that whoever did this managed to crawl in, breaking some of the lead in the process, and made away with an unknown quality of cash which was held in donation and collection boxes.
“There’s no room for acts like these, St Cybi’s is the jewel in the crown of Holyhead in many ways, its heartbreaking.
“St Cybi’s is a place for christenings, marriages and funerals, not wanton acts like this.”
According to Mr Evans, he’s now set to meet with the Police and Crime Commissioner over the coming weeks to discuss the anti-social behaviour issues in the area.
A Grade I-listed building, the original church was established by St Cybi in 540 AD, before being sacked by Viking invaders in the 10th century and damaged again in 1405 by Henry IV’s invading force in a bid to quell Owain Glyndwr’s rebellion.
In an attempt to track down the perpetrators, Investigating Officer PC Les Ellis at Holyhead Police Station said: “Sometime between 2pm Friday 20 and 8.30am Sunday, October 22, thieves forced their way into the church through a small stone arched window and, once inside, stole a cash box and cash.
“We’d like to hear from any- one who saw any suspicious behaviour or activity in the area at the time of the break-in.
“I’m also asking local businesses and communities to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity immediately.”
Anyone with information is urged to contact North Wales Police on 101 quoting RC17160426.