OLDSWINFORD churchgoers have been left devastated after thieves stole an irreplaceable 96-year-old bookstand.

The crooks broke into St. Mary’s Church on Rectory Road, sometime between 11am and 3pm on February 12 to steal the unique commemorative bookstand made of brass.

The church says they were shocked and saddened to find that in addition to the stand, food donations destined to help feed the homeless had been taken too.

The food items, donated by the congregation and members of the public, were going to help feed vulnerable people and families in crisis at the Black Country Food Bank.

Police enquiries are on-going and an appeal for help has been launched.

Anyone with information should contact police on 101, quoting crime number 20DY/34613G/18.

Alternatively Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously on ‪0800 555 111‬.