A thief has stolen silverware worth about £100,000 from a chapel in Brighton, Sussex Police said.
The thief forced his way into the Sussex University chapel, in Falmer, almost two weeks ago, before taking about a dozen pieces in a black rucksack.
The force said: “Sussex Police is appealing for information about the theft of high-value silverware from the chapel at the University of Sussex at Falmer.
“Missing items include silver chalices, two of which were designed by noted sculptor Hans Coper, and other religious artefacts.
“Around a dozen pieces have been stolen and it is thought their combined value is in the region of £100,000.
“The thief struck between 1.50pm and 2.20pm on Friday 7 December, forcing locked doors and containers in the two-storey circular Meeting House which houses the sacristy and stands next to the university’s Falmer House.
“He is believed to have carried off the items in a black rucksack, making off on foot towards the university’s Pevensey block.
“It is possible he then boarded a bus or got into another vehicle.
“The suspect is described as a man in his thirties, of mixed race, 6ft tall and of medium build, bald and with facial stubble.
“He was wearing a blue Puffa jacket over a grey hooded top, grey tracksuit bottoms and Nike air trainers.
“Police have alerted dealers to be aware of the theft and to report any suspicions if they are offered church silverware for sale.
“Anyone with information about the burglary, the suspect or the missing property is asked to email Sussex Police on 101@sussex.pnn.police.ukor to phone 101, quoting serial 806 of 10/12.
“Alternatively, please contact Crimestoppers at www.crimestoppers-uk.org or call the independent charity anonymously on 0800 555111.”
