CHURCH leaders have been given a special dispensation to use modern stainless steel instead of lead for a £311,000 re-roofing contract on their ancient church to protect it from thieves.

The “highly unusual” move by Historic England through the Listed Places of Worship Roof Repair Fund comes after thieves caused major damage last month to St Gregory’s church in Bedale, which dates back over 700 years.

The thieves had stripped 40 square metres of lead on one of the wettest nights of the year, causing damage to the Lady chapel and altar of the Grade1 listed building.

The church was due to undergo extensive re-roofing this week but the rector, Rev Ian Robinson, and church leaders were so concerned further damage could be done, they asked for the special dispensation to use stainless steel instead of authentic lead.

They needed the approval of the repair fund who were giving £96,000 towards the cost. The church is contributing £200,000 and an appeal has raised £7,000 - with a further £7,400 still to go

“We needed special dispensation and it is a great relief that they have agreed we can use stainless steel. It does mean we can sleep more easily without worrying that the church could be targeted again,” said Rev Robinson.

“While it isn’t quite as good as lead, and doesn’t look as authentic it isn’t targeted in the same way. Lead is the best thing to use really, it lasts longer, the church was last re-roofed in 1908, so it lasted very well, and it would be the right material for the job but this means we will not have to be concerned, and you have to think about the future."

He added: “There is a precedent. Another part of the roof has been done in stainless steel but that is in an area which is not seen. It doesn’t look exactly the same especially close up but it is a good decision to use alternative material. I don’t think it will be noticeable once it has weathered."

Rev Robinson said people in the town had been appalled by the theft, which had meant several services had had to be moved.

“People were really horrified, everyone was, because the church belongs to the whole town. It is their church and I have been overwhelmed by the support we have had - there really has been an outpouring of love.”

Work on the new roof is now not due to start until later in the year. In the meantime, Rev Robinson says the church has been working with the Cooperative Supermarket and other fundraisers to get the final funds they need.