POLICE are appealing for witnesses after thieves stole large quantities of lead from a Yorkshire Dales church.

St Andrew's Church, in Aysgarth, near Leyburn, was targeted overnight between June 19 and June 20.

Church warden Margaret Ferguson said the church community was very upset about the theft.

"We discovered it on the Friday morning as there were tell-tale signs.

"They had taken the chain of the main gate. When John Suggitt (church warden) and got the ladder and took a look he found they had taken all the lead from the north and south sides - it's been a big job."

Mrs Ferguson said the roof could not be repaired until the following Monday, meaning rain water got through in 15 different places.

It is not yet known how much the final repair bill will be.

Mrs Ferguson said the lead would not be replaced.

A spokesman for North Yorkshire Police said: "Significant damage was caused to the roof and the drainpipes of the church.

"Officers are appealing to anyone who saw anything suspicious in the area around the time of the theft to contact them with information."

In February, thieves caused an estimated £10,000 worth of damage to the church in nearby Redmire when they stole lead and damaged stonework.

Anyone with information should call North Yorkshire Police on 101 - select option two - and ask for Leyburn police.

If you prefer not to give your name, Crimestoppers can be contacted on 0800-555-111.

Callers should quote reference number 12150103365 when passing information about this incident.