DESPERATE drug addicts are regularly targeting churches in their quest for stolen goods in order to get a quick fix.

A Teesside priest has spoken out about the lengths criminals will go to after his church was targeted on Saturday during a wedding ceremony.

The Northern Echo reported yesterday how the granddaughter of North-East football legend Wilf Mannion was left distraught after a thief sneaked into Sacred Heart Church, in Middlesbrough, and stole the professional photographer's camera.

Philippa had just joined her fiancee, Brad Plunkett, at the altar for the start of the ceremony when the expensive digital camera was snatched.

As a result, some pictures of the bride and groom have now been lost and the couple, along with photographer Mike Henderson, are appealing for their return.

But Father Derek Turnham, of Sacred Heart Church, who is also communications officer for the Diocese of Middlesbrough, said, unfortunately, the crime was nothing new.

He is now installing a warning at the back of the church.

"I am very distressed for the couple because a wedding day is a once in a lifetime occasion and they had a right to keep their memories on film," said Father Turnham.

"I would, however, point out that the theft of items from churches is by no means an unusual occurrence.

"In the past few years bicycles, prams and even ladies handbags have been stolen, including a handbag that was taken during a funeral service.

"It is a sad reflection on the power of drug addiction that those affected by it will stoop to any level."

A spokeswoman for Cleveland Police said: "Even if you are in a church, make sure you keep your belongings with you. Don't assume that because you are in a church your belongings are safe."

Anyone who knows anything about the stolen camera, or, more importantly, the memory stick, is asked to call Cleveland Police on (01642) 326326, or Mr Henderson on (01642) 710486.