Police and worshippers have condemned thieves who stole valuable items from a Bradford church.

After kicking in two doors of John the Baptist Church in Clayton between 10pm on Monday and 5pm on Tuesday the raiders stole a century-old brass offertory plate and 1920s brass altar cross.

Now the church faces spending thousands of pounds to replace the items and improve the building's security.

Church warden Maureen Kershaw said the first break-in for many years had come as a big shock.

"We're just absolutely sick," she said.

"The offertory plate was solid brass and I should think was worth quite a lot - but you can't put a value on it.

"I can't imagine why they would want it and I don't think they realised there was an inscription on it."

She said the losses added to problems for people at the church, which is in interregnum until a new vicar arrives in July. Now, extra security measures are planned.

"We really could have done without this," added Ms Kershaw. "We have a lot of work to do with not having a vicar and it adds to the burden."

Sergeant Roy Wensley, of Toller Lane Police, appealed for witnesses to come forward.

"It is appalling breaking into any religious building and stealing from it," he said.

"It's sacrilege."

The offertory plate is inscribed with the words: "Presented by the friends of the Young Men's Society in memory of FH Whitty, vice-chairman, who died March 18th 1897, aged 40 years."

Anyone with information is asked to contact police on (01274) 376219.

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