Burglar breaks into St Michael's Church, in Galmington

The vicar of St Michael's Church, Galmington, said the overnight burglary had left her "shocked".

The burglar smashed a window to gain entry to the premises in Pitts Close.

It appears only a small amount of money from the petty cash was stolen.

The church was secured this morning to prevent anyone else getting in without permission.

The crime happened between the Church of England building being locked up at 5.30pm yesterday (Wednesday, January 4) and some time this morning.

The Rev Justine Richards, the vicar at the Anglican church, said it was discovered when broken glass was spotted near the Nativity scene at 11am today when worshippers were leaving the hall following Communion.

Although little of any value was taken, she said she was shocked at what feels like a "violation".

The Rev Richards said: "Last night we had a break in at St Michael's.

"The police have been informed and the building re-secured.

"The witnesses at the crib (see main photo) remain silent so if you have any information regarding a disturbance on the evening of January 4, please call St Mike's on 01823 762721."

The Rev Justine Richards.

She added: "We understand that times are really challenging at the moment.

"There was a lot of damage for no great reward.

"These things cause concern as they make everyone feel a little more vulnerable at a time when we need to be looking out for one another."

We have approached Avon and Somerset Police for a comment.

The incident comes the day after Taunton Minster was broken into and the cash register and donation box stolen.

READ MORE: Break in at Taunton Minster.

An Avon and Somerset Police spokesperson said: "A second burglary at a church in Taunton this week was reported just before midday today, Thursday 5 January.

"Officers were told thieves had damaged a window at St Michael the Archangel in Pitts Close, Taunton and stolen cash from the office.

"It happened sometime between 5.30pm on Wednesday 4 and 9.30am on Thursday 5 January and the crime reference is 5223002926.

"It follows a similar incident at St Mary Magdalene church in Church Square which happened between Tuesday 3 and Wednesday 4 January, reference 5223001861.

"If you have any information about either burglary please call 101 and give the relevant reference number to the call handler.

"Alternatively contact the independent charity Crimestoppers 100 per cent anonymously by calling 0800 555 111, or online at https://crimestoppers-uk.org/give-information"