A large brass lectern in the shape of an eagle, purchased in 1921 in memory of the fallen from the First World War, has been stolen from All Saints Church Pidley-cum-Fenton.

It is estimated the lectern will cost up to £15,000 to replace but is of "priceless" value to the villagers who are desperately appealing for any information in the hope of its return.

The All Saints church members believe the lectern was stolen from the church on Friday, June 23, between 12-6pm.

The Hunts Post: The large brass lectern, more than 5ft in height, in All Saints Church Pidley-cum-Fenton.The large brass lectern, more than 5ft in height, in All Saints Church Pidley-cum-Fenton. (Image: Simon Thompson)

The churchwarden, Simon Thompson, said: "The thieves clearly targeted the memorial, not touching the other brass items such as candlesticks and vases, so we do not believe this to be opportunistic and was a well-planned event."

"It [the memorial] is very much remembered by anyone who has lived here for a long time.

"We do still have relatives of William Braybrook, one of the fallen, living in the village."

The church is open for visitors every day to allow people to sit and pray, and Simon said that people visit the church or the graveyard most days.

The Hunts Post: The graveyard and grounds the church located on Church Farm Close, near Huntingdon.The graveyard and grounds the church located on Church Farm Close, near Huntingdon. (Image: Simon Thompson)

Simon added that the lectern is more than 5ft tall, extremely heavy and predicts it would've taken at least two or three people to remove it from the church.

The incident was reported to Cambridgeshire Constabulary, who said that despite a "thorough investigation", no suspects were identified, and the case has been filed pending any further developments.

READ MORE: Four men jailed for church lead thefts totalling £2m - including churches in Huntingdonshire

The Hunts Post: The lectern was the only item taken from the church by thieves.The lectern was the only item taken from the church by thieves. (Image: Simon Thompson)

Villagers have been sharing the news of the theft on Facebook to appeal for help, which has garnered massive amounts of support, shared with just under 2,000 people. 

The distraught villagers hope it has not already been melted down for scrap.

The post said: "Pidley is a small village and this lectern was very special, we would like it back. If you can help in any way - check your CCTV."