SPECIALIST contractors have abseiled down a landmark Huddersfield church seriously damaged by lead thieves.

They have covered and weatherproofed two large holes in the roof at St John the Evangelist Church on St John’s Road after thieves caused ten of thousands of pounds worth of damage.

A specialist firm from Birmingham, which helps churches that have suffered disasters, carried out the work and compiled a report for insurers.

Police believe the gang tied a rope to the copper lightning conductor which they wrapped around an iron railing near the church door. They tied the other end of the rope to the car and drove off, hoping to pull the copper part down.

It ended up bringing the top part of the church’s 150ft steeple crashing down early Thursday morning. Falling masonry smashed through the roof, causing large holes.

Giant cranes were brought in last week to inspect the damage, but further misery has been brought to the congregation with the suggestion that insurance may not cover the full cost of the repairs.

The congregation of around 45 people may now have to launch a campaign to raise additional funds to repair the damage.

The church could take months to repair. The congregation worshipped at Christ Church in Woodhouse on Sunday morning and will do so for the foreseeable future.

Sue Clarke, priest-in-charge at St John’s and Vicar of Christ Church in Woodhouse, said: “There was a baptism at Christ Church on Sunday, so that was a cause of joy and celebration, but there was a sense of sadness because of what has happened at St John’s.

“It is, however, wonderful the way everyone has pulled together. There is a real sense of togetherness. It’s such a joy to be part of this community.”

Police have appealed for information about the damage at the 155-year-old church.

A silver car was seen leaving the scene after a white man stopped it and moved fallen debris out of the way.

Anyone with information should contact Pc Shelley Harrison at Huddersfield Police Station on 0845 6060606 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.