A churchwarden has spoken of his sadness and disappointment after a burglars stole communion vessels.

The ciborium and two pyxes, which are used for transporting communion to those who are too ill to attend church, were stolen from St Peter’s Church in Goldhanger.

The vessels, worth £700, were inside the church safe at the time of the theft.

George Bunting, a churchwarden at St Peter’s for 24 years, said: “I’m very sad and disappointed that this has happened, but I’m resolved to keep the church open and have somewhere for people to come and spend time in contemplation.”

Call Pc Lea Keene at Maldon Police Station on 101 with any information.