A HUNT is on for the thieves who stripped lead from the roof of a community church.

The crime happened at the Salvation Army hall in Regent Street some time under cover of darkness.

Major Lynn Farmer, who is in the charge of the Greenock Salvation Army, says it is extremely frustrating especially as the local community dig deep in their pockets to support the charity.

She said: "We’re saddened that someone felt they had to resort to this vandalism of our community church – where people have made donations in good faith to support those who are vulnerable or in need.

"The thieves have taken a large amount of lead flashing from our hall roof.

"Thankfully we have escaped major damage due to the recent spell of dry weather in Greenock."

Major Farmer said they are determined not to let the theft cause disruption - and has appealed for anyone with information about it to call the police.

She added: “This is a frustrating incident but we are determined not to let it set us back or impact our vital work.

"If anyone has any information about the theft, please contact the police."

The theft some time happened between 9.30pm on Thursday and just before 9am on Friday morning last week.

It comes just after the organisation unveiled plans for a shop and community hub on a Greenock gap site next to the Roxburgh Street citadel, to support its charitable work and services.

The proposal, currently being considered by planners, is for a shop, community hub and meeting rooms on the site, which has been targeted by vandals and used as a dumping ground in the past.

If given the go-ahead, a full-time member of staff would be taken on to oversee the new venture.

Anyone with information about the theft is asked to phone Greenock police on 101.