Money raised after raid on church

MORE than £1,000 has been raised for a church that was burgled on Christmas Day.

It is believed St Lleurwg’s Church in Hirwaun, Rhondda Cynon Taff, was burgled on the morning of December 25 – with thousands of pounds worth of silverware and electrical equipment taken.

Police say the suspects may have carried out the crime after attending the church’s midnight mass service. Reverend Ceirion Rees said among the items stolen was a chalice and plate, a brass cross, two silver vases and a silver cross, a brass bell, a sound system and a Lenovo laptop and bag.

A JustGiving page set up to replace items stolen in the incident has raised £1,090.

Rev Rees, who has been at the Cynon Valley church for four years, said: “The community is in shock. It was pretty bad.

“Our church warden went and opened up the church for our Christmas Day service, which is usually a lovely event. As soon as she got to the door to open it, she knew something was wrong and that something was missing.

According to Rev Rees, two laptops and a PA system, along with microphones were taken, with the value up to £20,000.

In terms of silverware, a crucifix, candle sticks, chalice and a communion set were taken, as well as the trolley used for the food bank had gone.

A South Wales Police spokeswoman said officers believe the incident happened after the mass between 1.30am and 9.40am on Christmas Day, and that the incident is still under investigation.

Anyone offered any items they believe may be stolen are asked to report to the police immediately by calling 101 or anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555111, quoting reference 1700501118.