12-07-2025
Church wants to show 'redemptive nature' after 'sentimental' plant pots stolen
An Isle of Wight church has suffered a "really really sad" loss after plant pots with significant sentimental value were stolen from outside its building.
The pots, which were given to the church in memory of a member who had died, were taken from Newport Congregational Church on Pyle Street on Tuesday (July 8).
A man, who was captured on CCTV, made several trips throughout the afternoon to take the pots, despite being challenged by someone and assuring them he was told they were free to take.
Initially, church leader Reverend Mark Evans did not release any photos of the CCTV on social media, but has since done so in a plea for the pots to be returned.
Read more:
Ofsted: primary school that was earmarked for closure "calm and purposeful"
Cat crisis — number of neglected felines 'unmanageable' says animal rescuer
He said: "I hoped this would have been done by mistake but it is quite clear from the testimony from people that it was not.
"That's what feels really really sad.
"It is an opportunity for somebody to think and do the right thing."
Mark has been given potential names of the alleged pot thief, and even an address, but doesn't want to cause problems.
"I wanted to show the redemptive nature of the church.
"As I say I have been given names, even an address, but I don't want to be involved in a witch hunt.
"It would be a good news story for something to be returned."
Since the plea was put out, members of the church have offered to replace the pots and Forest View Nursery on Forest Road have offered to replace the plants.
But the sentimental value of the pots would be a loss to the church, and the congregation is hoping for their safe return.
Mark said: "Let's do the right thing here and celebrate somebody who made an mistake and learning from the error of his ways.
"I am happy to meet with the gentleman if he has any financial burdens and strife.
"We don't want people be in a place of struggle."
