THIEVES targeted St Peter's Church, Stainforth, on Friday.

Police say the offenders used a bladed instrument to try to force open the door to the vestry between 9am and 8.30pm.

They also made attempts to force open charity boxes in the church.

Officers are appealing for information and would like to hear from residents and passers-by who saw anything suspicious in the area around the time.

Anyone who can help is asked to contact Settle Police on 101 or the confidential Crimestoppers line on 0800 555111. Please quote reference number NYP-21022015-0201.