Merseyside Police are searching for a man who stole a religious artefact from Arrowe Park Hospital, with officers carrying out CCTV enquiries in the local area.
The hospital confirmed its tabernacle - a large brass urn - was taken from the hospital chapel at around 12.50pm on Wednesday. The theft has prompted an urgent appeal from both the hospital and Merseyside Police.
Police condemn 'despicable' theft
Wirral Neighbourhood Inspector Sharon Robinson said: "It is despicable to think that anyone would steal anything from a hospital.
"This tabernacle is of huge religious and spiritual significance, and we would appeal to anyone aware of its location to contact us so that we can return it to the hospital chapel and bring the offender to justice."
The suspect is said to have placed the item on a wheelchair and pushed it outside towards the football pitches on Arrowe Park Road.
Suspect description and appeal
The man was described as white, of slim build, and wearing a grey/black bobble hat with a surgical mask, a dark-coloured coat, jogging bottoms and trainers. He was also carrying a black Adidas bag with red text on it, police said.
The stolen tabernacle is about 18in (45cm) to 24in (60cm) tall, cylindrical with a dome top and sliding door. People responding to the hospital's appeal described the theft as the "absolute lowest of the low", with one saying: "What human could stoop that low?" and another adding: "How could someone do this? [It's] beyond me. What would he want it for? Hope it's returned."
How to report information
A police spokesperson said anyone with information should contact Merseyside Police social media desk via X or Facebook @MerPolCC, report it via the force's website, or call 101 quoting incident reference 26000782221. Alternatively, the independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111. In an emergency, always call 999.
