A VICAR has hit out at thieves who stole an estimated £60,000 worth of church silver.

The haul taken from St Margaret’s Church in Lewknor included two silver chalices, one a rare example from the Elizabethan period, a silver King James I plate and another silver plate.

The safe which housed the items was not forced open and the Rev Simon Brignall believes the thieves had come into the church before the burglary and taken the keys from the vestry.

Four weeks’ worth of church collections were left untouched. Mr Brignall said: “The items are all insured so we won’t lose too much money but in terms of historical value they are irreplaceable.

“They are heirlooms belonging to the community which have been passed down through the centuries and now they are gone.

“It is a callous thing to do, especially at Christmas which is a time of goodwill to everybody. I would appeal to the thieves to return the property. It will have no value at all on the antiques market because these items are distinct and are known to be stolen.”

It is not the first time the church has been targeted.

Mr Brignall said: “We have had quite a lot of items taken over the years.

“We are so close to the M40 that thieves simply drive into Lewknor, take what they want and disappear back to the motorway.

“Within a matter of minutes they are virtually untraceable and the goods are no doubt on a ship in Bristol destined for the Americas. It’s a problem throughout this area but there’s not a lot we can do.”

Police are appealing for witnesses. Dc Jon Shaw said: “Do you remember seeing any unusual vehicles in the area when the burglary could have happened, or beforehand? Every stolen item is unique and I appeal to anyone who might have information to get in touch.”

Anyone with any information should call 08458 505505 or the Crimestoppers charity anonymously on 0800 555 111.