A CHURCH congregation's prayers have been answered with the return of a noticeboard that was stolen more than a month ago.

Worshippers at Christ Church in Bradford on Avon were devastated when the oak board vanished from outside the church.

They were especially upset because it had been bought three years ago using donations given in memory of parishioner Vera Cole.

On Thursday a member of the congregation found the board, perfectly intact, in a walkway off Bath Road.

Christ Church vicar the Rev Ron Lowrie, said: "Our prayers have been answered. We thought it had gone for good. It's wonderful to have it back and the congregation will be absolutely delighted.

"It was given in memory of one of our congregation and it's lovely that it's been found."

The cabinet-style board, which is A4 size with a light oak frame, appeared to have been removed professionally because the screws and rawl plugs were also taken and there was no damage to the stonework.

Churchwarden Denise Leigh said the reason why the board had reappeared would probably remain a mystery.

"It's very bizarre and strange. It was propped up against a wall on a walkway about 150 yards away from the church. It's as it was when it left - screws included.

"We had been hoping for an attack of conscience and maybe that's what happened. All we know is it's been found and we're really grateful."

The board will now be returned to its old spot at the entrance of the church.

Mrs Leigh said: "We would like to thank whoever it was that returned the notice board and if what's underlying their action is a problem the person may have with the church, we are quite keen to talk about it with them."