Public display of treasures in doubt after theft

HOLY CROSS Abbey is considering removing all its valuable treasurers from public display after a gang of thieves stole an invaluable holy relic, said to be from the cross Jesus Christ died on, and a priceless 12th-century cross.

The miniature artefact brought to Holy Cross Abbey in Thurles, Co Tipperary, in the late 12th century was taken by two masked men yesterday.

Armed with an angle grinder, hammer and screwdriver, the pair stole a gold and bronze cross about 12 inches high with a glass-fronted centrepiece used to hold the relic. It had been stored securely in a steel-bound display case.