SPECIALIST investigators at New Scotland Yard have been alerted after two historical plaques were ripped out of a church in Lacock.

Two brass plaques, inset into the floor of St Cyriac's Church in Lacock, were taken by thieves on Saturday. It is believed they have been passed on to a collector.

The plaques have been in the Lackham aisle of the church since 1500. There are five plaques inlaid into stone tablets. Two were stolen; one featured the eldest son and the other five daughters of Sir Robert Baynard and his wife Elizabeth. The Baynard family lived on the nearby Lackham estate.

The thieves caused more damage while trying to prise a third plaque, of Sir Robert himself, from the ground.

Vicar Sally Wheeler said: "This is tragic. The plaques have been there for 500 years. They are not of any value to anyone else unless it is a collector. These people have taken away something that is part of our village and part of our history."

Investigating officer PC Andy Guy said there was little doubt the plaques had been taken to add to someone's collection.

He has been in touch with experts at New Scotland Yard, neighbouring police forces and various dealers and auction houses.

"Whoever took the plaques knew what they were doing, knew what they wanted and I think they may have been disturbed in their efforts because they failed to remove the third plaque," said PC Guy.

Parishioners believe someone went into the church, which is open from 10am to 5pm every day, on Saturday and chipped away at the two plaques. The plaques were in place on Friday when the church was cleaned.

It was not until after Sunday morning service the discovery was made.

Rev Wheeler added: "It would have been very easy for someone to look like they were doing some brass rubbing. These are unique pieces and we would love to have them back. We hope someone does not melt them down."

The church hopes to be able to get hold of replicas of the two stolen plaques and steps will be taken to protect the remaining ones.

Anyone with information can call (01249) 712172.