Damage caused in raid on the oldest church in Lewes

A would-be burglar has smashed lead panes on the vestry window of St Anne’s Church, which dates back to the 1160s.

But they could not get in because of security bars.

The oak vestry door was scratched on the outside from presumed entry attempts.

An iron bar was found outside by the base of a damaged stained glass window - protective metal mesh was wrenched up from the base sill and then the ancient window was wrenched up from the bottom, breaking glass.

There was enough space for someone to enter and exit the church. All external doors were locked.

Police said the internal lights were not switched on and the raider “seemed to have rummaged around quite blindly. Cupboards and drawers were rifled and contents spilled out”.

Anyone with information should email police at [email protected] or call 101 quoting reference number 0114 of 08/08/2016.

Alternatively you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111, or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org

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