Church leaders have revealed they never expected to see their prized font again after thieves looted it.
But now the 350-year-old stone ornament, worth an estimated £30,000, is standing in the property stores at South Woodham Ferrers police station waiting for them to collect it.
The 4ft high font, created by stonemasons in the 1650s, was stolen from St Peter's Church, in Little Warley, some time between January 31 and February 2.
However, it was recovered by an antiques dealer in Battlesbridge after he recognised it from a picture in the Evening Echo
Church warden David Tee said they were hoping to have it back in the church this week.
He said: "When it is back, we will be holding a special service to celebrate it. It is marvellous news because we really never expected to see it again."
Published Monday, April 8, 2002
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