Church in the dark as light fingered gang steal lamps

Published on Tuesday 19 January 2010 09:30

TWO Victorian lamps described as irreplaceable have been stolen from the grounds of a city church.

The thieves struck between Friday night and the early hours of Saturday morning, going to great lengths to remove the unique features at St Cuthbert's Episcopal Church in Colinton.

Church officials were shocked at the crime, which may be linked to the soaring price of scrap metal.

The first lamp, which stands at the top of a distinctive post in front of the church, was knocked down with what church members think was a long piece of scaffolding.

A step ladder, taken from the rear of the church, was then used to remove a second lamp from a wall at the side of the building.

Property manager of the church Bob Pritchard said the lamps could have been in place for as long as a century, and that they were a key feature of the structure on Westgarth Avenue.

He said: "One is in the style of an old Victorian street lamp, which stands in front of the church, and the lantern was knocked off it.

We found a scaffold pole beside it which we think might have been used.

"I've no idea if they wanted the lamps to resell or if it was about scrapping the material. Quite a few of the members are a bit upset about it."

The church is now in discussions with its insurance company to discuss the value of the lamps which, like the 1893 building, are listed.

It is the first time in memory that the church has been targeted by thieves or vandals.

The church newsletter described the theft as a "sad loss to the ambience of the church grounds", and Colinton/Fairmilehead councillor Jason Rust expressed his shock at the seizure.

He said: "This is very sad for the congregation in an area that doesn't often experience this kind of thing.

"I hope the lamps are recovered and the perpetrators brought to account. It sounds like they went to quite extensive lengths to steal the lamps. I hope goodwill prevails and they can be returned."

A police spokesman said: "Lothian and Borders Police are investigating following the theft of two Victorian lamps from a church in Westgarth Avenue.

"The incident is believed to have happened in the late hours of 15 January. Anyone with information to assist our inquiries is asked to contact police immediately."

Police can be contacted on 0131-311 3131, or witnesses can speak to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800-555 111.