THE community of Ruardean has been shocked by the news that over £30,000 is alleged to have been stolen from the village church.

Police confirmed that the money had been stolen from the funds of St John the Baptist Church at the end of last month.

The congregation were informed of the financial discrepancy during Sunday’s church service.

The Revd Nick Bromfield, the Church Rector, said he was ’devastated’ by events.

"It’s going to have a major impact on the running of the church," he said.

"I am heartbroken that this has happened and worry for the effect it will have on our Church and its loyal supporters who have worked tirelessly for years to raise this money.

“The police are on the case, as they have been since we reported it. Things will come out in phases as they conduct their investigation I imagine."

The Diocese of Gloucester said: “We can confirm that a large sum of money has been taken from our parish accounts without authorisation.

"We have reported this to the police and this is now part of an official police investigation.

“We all feel a sense of devastation for the implications this will have for our ministry.”