THE theft of a war memorial plaque from Christ Church churchyard in Willaston was described as “abhorrent” by police last night.

Two large metal plaques were ripped from the village war memorial, damaging the surrounding stonework, in Christ Church churchyard, in Willaston, near Neston.

It is believed the plaques were wrenched away from the masonry on Friday night.

The plaques, which bear the names of fallen soldiers from the two world wars, are believed to be bronze, each measuring approximately 2.5ft by 2ft.

The war memorial was funded by public subscription and erected in 1921.

The theft was discovered early on Saturday morning, and Cheshire Police began making inquiries among residents and scrap metal dealers to track down those responsible.

Christ Church vicar Reverend Raymond Dent, who is also a padre for Lancashire Army Cadet Force, said he was “appalled” at the incident.

He said: “I am absolutely disgusted anyone could show such irreverence and lack of respect for those who gave their lives so this country could be free.

“This is a sin against humanity.”

The incident has caused shockwaves among residents in Willaston, where the prominent monument to the dead of two world wars stands on raised ground in the churchyard off Neston Road.

Churchwarden Vivien Ley said: “The people of Willaston are shocked and incredulous that anyone could be capable of showing such contempt for their fellow man.”