Not only are the crooks pinching lead off roofs and smashing valuable stained glass windows, but one even stole flowers from a church on the eve of a wedding.

A senior police officer branded the crimes as "despicable" and vowed everything possible was being done to catch the culprits.

Now worshippers are being urged to be on their guard, keep doors locked even during services and report anything suspicious to Central Scotland Police.

In the latest incident, a break-in occurred at Denny Old Parish Church overnight on Sunday.

The crime was discovered around 10 a.m. on Monday when a member of the congregation went to open up the church. Various areas of the building had been targeted and a list is being compiled of what was stolen.

Early on Sunday morning, a man was arrested by police as he attempted to steal lead off the roof of Larbert East Parish Church.

He appeared at Falkirk Sheriff Court the following day, where he pled guilty and was sentenced to four months in jail.

Ten days earlier the same church was broken into when a thief smashed a valuable stained glass window to gain entry. As well as stealing stationery, the intruder made off with flowers which had been put on display for a wedding that took place the following day.

Larbert East recently underwent a major renovation project which cost in the region of £500,000 to complete.

Although a grant was received from Historic Scotland, the congregation still had to find £200,000, with the money raised through various fundraising projects.

The church roof was re-slated and re-roofed, while stonework and windows were repaired.

A handbag was also stolen from Dunipace Parish Church during the morning service on Sunday, July 13.

The Rev. Jerome O'Brien, clerk to Falkirk Presbytery, said at its latest meeting that advice was noted from the Church of Scotland's General Assembly about lead being stolen from roofs because of its high value.

He said: "It was also noted that a congregation in Bainsford had a computer taken when someone came into the building. And two years ago, during a service at a Grangemouth church, someone went through coats which were hanging up and took a set of car keys, then stole the car.

"We are doing as much as we can to alert congregations to the problem and to keep security measures in mind."

Chief Inspector Bob Beaton urged churchgoers to be on their guard and immediately report anything suspicious to police.

He said: "It is despicable that anyone would target places of worship. However, this is not just a problem in Denny or Larbert, there have been similar crimes across the force area.

"I would urge congregations to be vigilant and if they spot anyone who is not known to them and who is acting suspiciously, to contact us immediately."