Two century-old WWI memorial plaques stolen from Chatham churchyard have sparked outrage and a police hunt. The historic plaques, honoring First World War servicemen, vanished from the lychgate of Christ Church on Luton Road between 10pm Friday 23 May and 10pm Saturday 24 May 2025.
Community Shock as Priceless Memorials Vanish
PC Alanya Spiller slammed the theft as a “devastating act” that’s rocked the local community.
“These memorials to those who gave their lives during the First World War have stood at the church lychgate for over a hundred years,” said PC Spiller. “Their loss has had a considerable impact on the community. We urge anyone with information to come forward.”
CCTV and Dashcams Sought in Investigation
Kent Police are appealing for locals with private CCTV or dashcam footage to check for suspicious activity around Luton Road, especially near Christ Church during the incident timeframe.
How to Help Recover Stolen War Memorials
- Call 01634 792209 quoting reference 46/87178/25
- Contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111
- Report tips online at the Crimestoppers website
Outcry Over ‘Crime Against Memory and Sacrifice’
The theft has ignited fury online and across Medway. Campaigners demand beefed-up security at war memorials. Generous residents have already offered donations to replace or recover the plaques.
Local historians and veterans’ groups condemned the theft as a “crime against memory and sacrifice” — robbing the community of a sacred link to its past.
