Mags GarganThe PSNI has advised parishes to take steps to prevent the theft of lead from church rooftops after a spate of recent robberies in Derry city.
The theft of a large quantity of lead from the flat porch roof of St Columba’s Church, Long Tower, was discovered when workmen went to repair a leak in the roof during recent rain storms. “It is the first time we have ever had a theft like that but a number of homes in the parish have also been affected, so we are all being extra vigilant,” said Fr Brendan Collins.
It was also discovered last week that lead was also taken from the roof of the Nazareth House building in nearby Bishop Street.
A spokesperson from the PSNI advised parishes to protect property against lead theft by using anti-climb paint on lead flashing or to switch to a lead substitute. “By applying this paint to lead flashing you are preventing would-be thieves from gaining a foothold on your property, making it practically impossible for them to steal. The paint also makes the lead less attractive to scrap metal dealers reducing the incentive for intruders. It’s also extremely difficult to remove from clothing, acting as a further deterrent.”