Two historic memorial plaques commemorating First World War servicemen have been stolen from the churchyard of Christ Church on Luton Road, Chatham, prompting a police appeal and widespread community anger.
The theft occurred sometime between 10pm on Friday, 23 May and 10pm on Saturday, 24 May 2025, at the lychgate of the church, where the plaques had stood for over a century.
Memorials ‘Deeply Valued by the Community’
PC Alanya Spiller, the investigating officer, described the theft as a devastating act that has left the local community reeling.
“These memorials to those who gave their lives during the First World War have been in place at the church lychgate for over a hundred years,” she said.
“Their loss has had a considerable impact on the local community, and we are appealing to anyone who may be able to assist our enquiries to contact us.”
CCTV and Dashcam Footage Sought
Kent Police are urging residents with private CCTV and drivers with dashcam footage to review recordings for suspicious activity around Luton Road, particularly near Christ Church during the timeframe of the incident.
How to Help
Anyone with information that may assist the investigation or help recover the stolen plaques is asked to:
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Call 01634 792209, quoting reference 46/87178/25
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Or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111
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You can also report online via the Crimestoppers website
A Crime Against Memory
The theft has sparked outrage online and in the local community, with calls for increased security at war memorials across Medway. Several residents have also offered donations toward the replacement or recovery of the plaques.
Local historians and veterans’ groups have described the incident as “a crime against memory and sacrifice”.
