THIEVES who smashed open 'sacred' prayer collection boxes in Gloucester Cathedral are being hunted by police.
Two men have been captured on CCTV snatching money from the place of worship twice in two weeks.
The donations had been made at candle stands by people who had stopped there to pray for loved ones.
The thieves struck first on Tuesday June 5, breaking padlocks on three metal boxes attached to the stands and emptying them of about £70 cash.
They returned on Wednesday last week and another three boxes, placed in separate areas in the cathedral, were attacked in the same way and emptied of about £75 in cash.
The incident happened between 1.50pm and 3.35pm, while a school service was taking place.
Dean of the cathedral, The Very Reverend Stephen Lake, said it was not the first time the boxes had been attacked by thieves but he hoped it would be the last.
"It's very sad that some people feel the need to take money that has been given by people as a sign of their prayer," he said.
"It disturbs a place that people have come to for peace and rest. It is a sacred place."
The money pays for the candles and the upkeep of the cathedral, which costs £6,000 a day to run.
Mr Lake said they would now have to spend extra money repairing the boxes and may have to look at further security if it happens again.
He added: "It was the same people both times and we want them to know they have been captured on CCTV."
Police are reviewing the footage and are linking the two incidents.
They have urged anyone with any information to call 101 quoting incident 488 of June 19.
Or information can be given anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555111, or www.crimestoppers-uk.org.
In some cases Crimestoppers offer rewards of up to £1,000 where information leads to a conviction.