Callous theft of oak table

Police in Wimborne are appealing for witnesses and information from the public after an antique oak table was stolen from a church in Corfe Mullen.

It was stolen from Wareham Road Methodist Church on Friday, 7 May 2010, at approximately 11.30am.

The church was having some new carpet fitted at the time of the theft, and so furniture had been moved into the church’s chapel.

The table is an antique oak table, used as a communion table, and is described as being of a similar size to an office desk.

A cross is etched onto the front and a brass plaque – measuring approximately 6cm by 3cm – is on the middle strut that runs between the table’s two front legs.

Police Constable Steve Cracknell, from Corfe Mullen Safer Neighbourhood Team, said: “This is a callous theft from a church that relies on charitable donations to survive, and I am committed to bringing those responsible to justice.

“I believe it would have taken two people to lift the table, and they would have needed a van or a large vehicle to transport it.

“I would encourage anyone who witnessed anything suspicious at the church on Wareham Road, or anyone with any information about the table’s location, to contact me.

“I’m particularly keen to hear from any antique dealers who may have been offered a table matching this description.”

Witnesses and anyone with information should call Dorset Police in confidence on 01202 or 01305 22 22 22 or the free and anonymous Crimestoppers line on 0800 555 111 where mobile phone tariffs may apply.