Priceless stained glass window stolen from historic village church

The irreplaceable window, which dates from between 1530 and 1540, has disappeared from the beautiful Withcote Chapel, an early 16th century church in the tiny village of Withcote, which is about 16 miles north of Market Harborough. not far from Tilton on the Hill.

The window is believed to be the work of Galeon Hone, who was a favourite stained glass designer of King Henry VIII.

Withcote villager Sue Cavanagh, who has lived next to Withcote Chapel for 50 years, said a workman mowing the churchyard on Monday had spotted that the window had gone.

She went into the Chapel and discovered the window panel had gone.

“I’ve no idea when exactly the window was removed” said Ms Cavanagh. “All I can say is it was a beautiful window, and obviously very valuable.”

David Adgar of the Churches Conservation Trust which looks after the Chapel told the Mail: “This was a unique 16th century window panel and you can’t put a price on it - it’s invaluable.”

The Conservation Trust’s website says: “This is a stunning Tudor chapel, with windows fit for a king.

“A towerless, pinnacled box made from pale gold ironstone, it looks like a miniature King’s College Chapel, Cambridge. Its most spectacular treasure is its stained glass.”

The Chapel is a redundant Anglican church, but it is still open to the public.