A DAYLIGHT attempted theft of lead from a Bellsmyre church prompted neighbouring builders to step in and fix the roof.

St Peter's Church, in Howatshaws Road, was hit earlier this month and 15 metres of lead was rolled up ready to be removed when it appears the thieves were disturbed.

But workers at the Caledonia Housing Associaton spotted the damage and volunteered to put things to right before there could be water ingress to the church.

Father John McGinley told the Reporter the attempted theft on October 12 was thankfully during the school holidays when the weather was drier.

He thanked site manager John Butler and the roofers at the new housing site for stepping in.

"It was important to get that help," he said.

The church had previously suffered a lead theft in the past and it's marked to help avoid such thefts - even with signs posted pointing that out.

"They still took a risk," he added.

A spokesperson for Caledonia Housing Association said: “We were delighted to be able to step in and help our community neighbours at St Peter’s Church after the recent attempted robbery.

"CCG, our building a Better Bellsmyre construction contractor, were able to quickly repair the damage to the roof. Thanks to CCG’s onsite team for coming to the aid of the Bellsmyre community so quickly and effectively.”

Police said the attempted theft was between 12pm and 4pm on Tuesday, October 12 and they continue to investigate the incident. Any witnesses are urged to contact them on 101.

Leven ward councillors urged anyone with information to step forward, and praised the contractors for helping the church in their hour of need.

Councillor Jim Bollan told the Reporter: "Heartening news that the theft of lead from the roof at St Peter's has been foiled.

"A big thank you to the housing contractor workers building houses next door to the Church for refitting the lead for St Peter's which will be a great benefit to them. A superb show of solidarity from a group of workers, many thanks."

And Councillor Ian Dickson said: "It was disappointing to hear about an attempt to steal lead from the roof of St Peter's but really heartening to hear of CCG construction stepping up in the Bellsmyre community and coming to the rescue to repair the damaged church roof.

"With a police investigation ongoing I encourage anyone who may have seen anything to report it to Police Scotland on 101 or to report it anonymously to Crimestoppers."