THIEVES have stolen lead from a church roof in Tyldesley.

The offenders climbed onto the roof of the church and first attempted to steal lead sheets. They eventually made off with 16ft of lead flashing.

Police were called to St George's Church on Elliot Street at 7pm on Monday, but it is probable the incident occurred the night before.

Inspector Anne Scott said: "We are still trying to ascertain the full extent of the damage the offenders have caused, but the church has already suffered water damage.

"This incident may well have occurred late at night, but we are appealing to anyone in the community who may have seen something suspicious to get in touch.

"The increasing price of metal abroad in recent years has led to more and more cases like this.

"As a police force we work closely with the British Metal Recycling Association (BMRA) to assist them in helping scrap metal dealers to comply with trading legislation and identify those traders who are unlicensed and trading illegally."

Anyone with any information is asked to call police on 0161 856 7319 , or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.