Burglars damage and attempt to steal war memorial at Eastbourne church

St Saviour’s Church in South Street was targeted by lead thieves overnight who stole lead from over the parish office and damaged the memorial, which is inscribed with the names of the dead from the First World War.

Willingdon golf course targeted in ‘worst case of vandalism’ club has ever seen

Father Mark McAulay, who says this is the second time this year they have been targeted for lead, said, “It’s bad enough taking lead but it’s really nasty when you attack a war memorial with the names of the war dead. It is reprehensible.

“The same day I had an email from another church down the road who intercepted people trying to steal lead. So there’s obviously a little gang going around.”

The damage to the parish office roof has made it almost unusable for now and will cost thousands to repair.

However, since the incident, an anonymous person has fixed the damage to the war memorial.

Father McAulay said, “It’s almost a miracle that someone has fixed it in 24 hours since the damage was done. It’s fantastic.”

Anyone with information about the incident overnight on Thursday is asked to contact Sussex Police online or on 101.