SALISBURY Cathedral is just one of the churches affected by a spate of lead thefts across Wiltshire, causing "thousands of pounds worth of damage".

In recent weeks churches have been targeted across the county, with four 10ft lead pipes stolen from the walls of the cathedral.

Another nearby church targeted was The Rectory, Zeals, when between August 14 and 16 around £40,000 worth of lead was stolen.

Detective Sargeant Sam Hopkinson is urging residents to be mindful of these incidents and to report any suspicious activity immediately, describing the stealing of lead as "extremely costly and inconvenient to repair".

DS Hopkinson added: “I’d like to ask members of the public to help us with our enquiries by reporting any suspicious activity they may see around our churches – this could include anyone seen on church roofs, vehicles parked nearby which aren’t familiar, or any torch lights spotted around churches late at night or in the early hours of the morning.

"We need to know about this activity as it is happening, so please help by being our eyes and ears and letting us know this information when you see it."

Other churches affected include Malmesbury Abbey, Christ Church in Warminster and James Church in Bratton.

“Those involved in committing these crimes are causing thousands of pounds worth of damage and we are determined to identify those involved,” DS Hopkinson added.

If anyone has any further information call 101, or 999 if a crime is in progress.