Thieves steal baby Jesus and his crib from nativity scene outside Scots church

St Peter’s Episcopal Church in Galashiels is calling for the safe return of Baby Jesus, after vandals stole the centrepiece of this year’s Christmas nativity scene.

The roof of the stable was prized off so access could be gained, and the theft has been reported to the police.

Mary and Joseph were undamaged but have been removed, and a member of the congregation knitted a substitute Holy Family.

Reverend Simon Cake said: “They took baby Jesus and the manger rather than the whole family.

Thieves stole baby Jesus and his crib from nativity scene outside a church in Galashiels.

“I hope it will appear tomorrow, for Christmas Eve.

“They are plaster of Paris and Victorian and quite large.

“Lots of people have said they are used to seeing them every year. They have got huge sentimental value.

“We reported it to the police and they said other stuff has been going missing."

He is optimistic the figure may be returned, ahead of the Christingle services which will go ahead on Christmas Eve.

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