St George’s Church on Buxton Road in Stockport has launched a CCTV appeal after a Christmas Santa decoration was stolen.
The decoration was stolen on December 12 said the church.
It is not the first time this has happened; the church had a similar decoration taken last year.
To combat thieves the church had attempted to cable tie Santa but someone appears to have cut the ties that bind.
CCTV of the suspect
St George’s Church have asked the Manchester Evening News and other news outlets to share a CCTV picture in a bid to save Santa, the picture appears to show an
But the church said someone cut the cable ties and made off with Santa while a recital was taking place inside.
St George's have now asked the M.E.N the share a CCTV picture, which appears to show a person holding the decoration, in a bid to 'save Santa'.
A post on their Facebook page on Monday said: "Last night the Father Christmas who was part of our decorations in the entrance porch was stolen.
"These were done to make a cheery and festive welcome into church especially for the children.
"His 'twin' brother was stolen last year so this year we fastened his feet with cable ties to the base.
The stolen Santa
"But last night while there was a recital in church the ties were cut and he was abducted.
"If anyone sees a Santa with long extendable legs abandoned anywhere or you know where to find him, we would be very pleased to have him back, no questions asked. Thank you."
In a further update on Tuesday, the church posted a CCTV image and said: "Further to the abduction of our Father Christmas from the porch doorway, here is the person who kindly helped themselves to our decoration, making away with him at 9.30 pm on Sunday night as we were cleaning the church after an organ recital.
"We would be very happy to see him returned if someone has a conscience.