30.07.2008

53m platform helps with ripped-off steeple

Last Thursday night thieves stripping lead from St John the Evangelist Church in Birkby, near Huddersfield pulled the top off the 50 metre (150ft) steeple, the highest in the Wakefield Diocese, after having attached their van to the copper lightening conductor in order to pull it free.
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The damaged spire

However the lingtening conductor, a 60 metre-plus length of copper, was firmly attacthed to the top of the steeple, so the thieves got more than bargained for. Falling masonry smashed through the church roof with such force that it crashed through the floor below and into the cellars.
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The 53 metre unit was ideal for the job

A Bradford based contractor was called in to make the steeple safe, but struggled to find a way to reach the damage. The first lift that was called was too short, the contractor then checked with Wilson Access Hire in Elland, Leeds. The company’s 53 metre Wumag WT530 had just completed a job in Leeds and was redirected to the church.
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The lift set up for work on one side only

The lift was used to survey the damage, remove looses stones from the top of the steeple in order to prevent further damage and then cap it. Tarpaulins were also put over the roof to cover the holes.
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The falling masonary crashed through the roof

Police have asked for any information that might help catch the thieves, a silver car was seen leaving the scene.

Anyone with information should contact PC Shelley Harrison at Huddersfield police station on 0845 6060606 or Crimestoppers free and anonymously on 0800 555 111.