Thieves have ripped lead from the roof of the 132-year-old St Peter's Church in Staines-upon-Thames, Surrey, leaving the building damaged and requiring repairs estimated to cost thousands of pounds. Local residents have set up a GoFundMe page to help cover the cost of the damage.
Community Outrage
The porch roof of the church now needs replacing, and Councillor Harry Boparai (Liberal Democrats) described the incident as a "new low" for the community. As reported by GB News, he said: "We've had some fantastic people that always come together behind the scenes; I had a roofer contact me saying, I'll put me in touch with the church and I'll help them out."
He also warned that the community was being let down by those responsible for stopping crime, noting that the damage to the church was just one of a number of recent incidents. He added: "There are good people, but they're being let down by the folks who have got the power, who turn a blind eye or don't deal with the wrong ones within society."
Fundraising Appeal
The GoFundMe page for the church damage says: "For 132 years, St Peter's has been there for people in times of joy, sadness, celebration and need. Like every Church of England parish, we pay for the upkeep of our own buildings, and we raise that money locally. We can't say enough how much it costs just to keep the doors open and the lights on in a 132-year-old church. Costs that increase every year."
Police Investigation
Surrey Police have identified one suspect in connection with the vandalism, but he remains at large. Officers are continuing to appeal for information as their investigation continues.
Matthew Walton, the Borough Inspector, said the force has seen a reduction in crime of 6% and is solving 17% of all reported crime in the area. He noted the "well-known and well-liked" PCSO Mark Lappin, who is "out in Sunbury every day being visible and helping to tackle issues." He added: "We have a dedicated neighbourhood police team for the borough who are supported by our neighbourhood enforcement team, focused on tackling local issue." He continued: "We would encourage our community to report incidents/issues to us so we can continue to further reduce crime and continue to solve even more."
