The historic Sherborne Abbey Picture: Sherborne Abbey

Crime News

“Extremely sad day” for Sherborne Abbey following break in and theft

Tait ap EllisAugust 7, 20240 Comment0

SHERBORNE Abbey’s Rector has expressed his sadness after thieves broke in and stole a large amount of valuable silver items overnight from the historic abbey.

Rector, Revd Martin Lee, said that significant damage has been caused to the abbey’s doors, which were broken down as thieves reportedly gained entry between 9pm on August 6 and 1am on August 7.

Police say it is believed the offenders entered through the Abbey Close end of the building and then exited near Church Lane.

A spokesperson for the abbey said they are Representatives from the abbey are working with police following the incident.

Revd Lee said: “This is an extremely sad day for the Abbey and indeed for our community.

“We are all deeply shocked by this crime and now must work hard to deal with the consequences and support all those in our community who are affected by this act of desecration to our beautiful Abbey.”

Sherborne Abbey will remain closed for the rest of the day as police investigations continue and will reopen tomorrow morning.

READ MORE: Silver stolen from Sherborne Abbey

Police Community Support Officer Mark Jones, of Sherborne Police, said: “Sherborne Abbey is a historic landmark of significant cultural value to not just the town but the whole county and we are carrying out enquiries into this burglary to identify those responsible.

“We are keen to trace the movement of the offenders in the areas of Hospital Lane, Abbey Road, Church Lane and Half Moon Street so I would ask local residents to please check their home CCTV and doorbell cameras to see if they have captured anything of relevance.

“I would also urge any motorists driving in the area at the time of the offence to please review their dashcams to see if they have captured any footage which may aid our investigation.”

A diocesan spokesperson said: “We are deeply saddened to hear of the theft at Sherborne Abbey and the damage that has been incurred on one of the most significant and beautiful churches in the Diocese and wider Church of England.

“Such actions are deeply upsetting for the community, who have lost items of value to both the town and the Abbey.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with the community at this distressing time.”

If you have any CCTV or possibly even dashcam footage outside the abbey during these hours, contact Dorset Police quoting Dorset Police Occurrence 55240120614.

You can contact police by visiting their website.