Campaign to save our history

STOCKTON Heath Parish Council is to give its full backing to Cheshire’s unique “Heritage Watch” – a campaign to combat thieves who are targeting churches and other historic buildings.
Time was, the council was told, when church burglars headed straight for the altar.
But now they are more likely to be after the lead on the roof, Stronger Communities manager Andy Williams told members.
The theft of lead and other metals from heritage assets is costing the public many thousands of pounds in repair bills when roofs are left open to the weather, he said.
Even worse, some thefts can lead to the loss of a priceless piece of history for ever.
Cheshire’s Heritage Watch scheme is the first of its kind in the country.
A network of police, community groups and other partners with special knowledge of heritage locations in their areas have come together to look at ways of combating heritage crime.
They are looking for people to become Heritage Watch champions, start up Heritage Watch groups, share information with other people and report anything suspicious they see.
To find out more on how to get involved visit www.cheshire.police.uk/get-involved/watch-schemes/heritage-watchaspx