Kingsbridge churches have, once again, been targeted by thieves.

Both St Edmunds and Dodbrooke have suffered seven thefts between them since June. Mostly this has been by forcing open the collection box in the wall and stealing loose change from within, although most recently a pair of candlesticks has been taken from Dodbrooke.

Sgt Dave Green said: “At this stage we are not yet aware of similar problems at other denominations in Kingsbridge.”

This is a problem that Kingsbridge saw last year, with Faith Watch being launched to combat the problem, with the scheme aiming to provide a link for communities, from all religions denominations to tackle the issue together.

After Faith Watch was launched, the problem appeared to subside, but it has no reared its head again.

Police are working closely with the vicar, the Revd Jackie Taylor, and the churchwardens at both churches. In response to these thefts, church property is now securely marked with DNA products, rendering every item traceable and increasing the risk of the thief being caught.

Anyone visiting Kingsbridge churches is asked to report any suspicious activity they see to the police via email: [email protected]