IT IS upsetting to see the damage inflicted on the church at Inglesham purely for the financial gain of callous criminals.

St John the Baptist Church is an historic building of real importance and is rightly venerated in the community, so to see it stripped of its lead roof for selfish gain is shocking.

The famous collection of medieval wall paintings are now at risk and a staggering £60,000 is required to fix the damage caused.

The Churches Conservation Trust is organising a swift meeting to get everyone involved in helping to find enough money to repair the roof, but it won’t be easy to come up with that kind of sum at short notice.

While it is heartbreaking that thieves could be so uncaring, it is heartwarming to see that in a time of need the community’s instant response is to come together.

This is exactly the approach that must be taken and, with this kind attitude, it hopefully won’t be long before all the money is raised.