CATHEDRAL bosses have been left ‘devastated’ after opportunist thieves stole £2,500 worth of lead from a roof.
More than 10 metres of valuable leadwork was stripped from the roof above Chester Cathedral’s shop.
Cathedral surveyor Richard Axon said the damage could have dire consequences for the Rectory cafe and the shop, which provide vital revenue for the city landmark.
Richard, who has worked at the St Werburgh Street-based cathedral for two years, said: “If the rain comes it could really impact the shop and the computers in it.
“Where the lead has been removed is right at the hub of where the shop is run from, where the stock is and where they do the accounts.”
The incident which is believed to have occurred on over night on Tuesday (JULY 12) evening has left Cathedral chiefs to foot a £2,500 bill.
Richard added: “We’ll get some of it back through insurance but we will have to pay excess and it’s money we just don’t have.
“But it’s not just that - it’s people’s time - it’s not a victimless crime. There is a lot of hassle involved.”
Temporary coverings have been put into place on the low level roof which was targeted.
But Richard said it can be difficult to gauge the scale of the problem until adverse weather conditions turn the situation into a disaster.
He added: “We don’t know what impact it’s going to have but if the shop has to close it’s more about the effect on people’s livelihood.”
Meanwhile police warn the value of lead is currently at a premium, which has emboldened thieves to attempt high-risk thefts.
The hit on Chester Cathedral follows a string of incidents across the borough, including Neston Primary School and Northwich Library.
Heavy rain leaked through Northwich Library’s unprotected roof, destroying a quantity of books and ruining several rooms’ decor.
And at Neston Primary School, classrooms and equipment were also left severely damaged, sparking them to raise thousands of pounds through various fundraising drives.
Director of Chester-based family firm, Maxiflow Roofing Services, John McLeod has offered advice to business owners in the city.
He said: “This is becoming an increasing problem in urban areas with high populations, with the very real possibility that members of the public are at risk not
only of the thefts, but of injury caused by the carelessness of these vandals.
“We always find that prevention is better than the cure, so would advise that members of the public take steps now to prevent damage to their property or
themselves.”
These include installing DNA grease to track thieves, and switching from lead to rubber.
Police have called on the public to assist with their ongoing investigation into the incident.
Witnesses or anyone with information has been asked to call Chester Inner Neighbourhood Policing Team on 0845 458 0000 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.