Thieves caused damage estimated at £17,000 when they ripped lead from a church roof.

They struck at Holy Trinity Church, in Cowling, near Keighley, stripping about 25 metres of lead flashing from the Victorian building.

The theft – the second such incident in two years – happened between Friday afternoon and Sunday morning.

Vicar, Canon Michael Cowgill, said: “It is a great disappointment. It is a small congregation here who are working hard to maintain the church so it is a bit disheartening when thieves steal all the things they have worked for.”

Churchwarden Brian Ridehalgh discovered the lead theft on Sunday and has spent several hours installing plastic sheeting to make the church watertight again.

Anyone with information about the theft should contact Cross Hills Police on 0845 6060247 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.