Now centre manager Brian Sarre is appealing for the plastic letters to be returned, as it could cost £300 to replace them.

The crime happened between 1.20 and 1.35am on Saturday 10 September.

Mr Sarre said six letters were missing.

The theft was spotted the next morning by Emma Keirle, wife of parish rector the Rev. Mike Keirle.

The remaining letters from the 'community centre' part of the sign have been taken down and stored safely.

'It is very frustrating and disgusting behaviour,' Mr Sarre said.

'It's not just criminal damage – it's insulting the centre in general.'