Police in appeal over stolen churchyard stones
POLICE officers are appealing for information after a church was targeted by thieves.
The suspects, who are believed to have been travelling in a high-top long wheelbase Ford Transit van, stole York Stone from outside or Ormskirk Paris Church.
Officers say the incident is thought to have taken place at around midnight on Tuesday, February 15.
Residents, posting on the Ormskirk police Facebook page, have expressed their ‘shock’ that thieves would take something from a ‘sacred place.’
Michelle Andrews said: “Oh for goodness sake is nothing sacred anymore. These horrible, sad, miserable humans. Justice must be done.”
Susan Gill added: “Absolutely unbelievable. What sort of person does this to sacred ground? These people have got to be caught and soon. Absolutely disgusting.”
Some locals have also pointed out that this isn’t the first church to be targeted by thieves in the region.
Carole Barnfather said: “It was only a couple of weeks ago that the same happened at Halsall Church. I hope they catch them.”
Joanne Bella commented: “No not another Church! That’s three round here now in the last few weeks.”
While a third, Liz McInerney added: “Shocking! I believe this is the third church to be hit recently - please keep your eyes open and hopefully they’ll be caught very soon.”
And Lilly Blackledge said: “This really makes my blood boil! They done Sefton church two weeks ago.”
A spokesperson for Ormskirk and Rural West Lancs Police said: “South Rural Taskforce are appealing for witnesses following a theft of York Stone from Ormskirk Parish Church.
“The incident is believed to have taken place at approximately 00:00 hours on 15th February 2022.
“The offenders are believed to have been travelling in a high-top long wheelbase Ford Transit van in White.
“If you saw what happened or have any further information, please contact Lancashire Police on 101 quoting log LC-20220215-0396, or alternatively email SouthRTF@ lancashire.police.uk”