Increasing numbers of Scotland's churches are being robbed of thousands of pounds worth of metal.

More than 30 metal thefts have been reported at Church of Scotland properties across the country since last September - a rate of more than one a week.

With organised metal thieves turning to churches at an alarming rate, congregations are being urged to take action to prevent their buildings from being targeted.

To help them, the Church of Scotland Insurance Company (COSIC) is providing risk management support for congregations through a new agreement with SmartWater Technology Ltd.

Under the agreement, Church Scheme Insurance policy holders will receive a free SmartWater starter kit containing a supply of SmartWater forensic solution and deterrent signage.

Smartwater marks metals with a forensic signature that glows under UV light, allowing police to link a thief or handler of stolen goods to a particular crime.

So far nearly 500 churches have signed up to take advantage of this offer.

David Robertson, Secretary to the General Trustees of the Church of Scotland, said the incidents of metal theft are occurring primarily in the central belt, as well as Dundee and Aberdeen.

“In the last few years we have seen a steep rise in the number of churches being targeted by metal thieves," he said.

“It is not a victimless crime and the impact and cost of metal theft is not limited to replacing what has been stolen.

"Removing material from a church roof, for example, can lead to further damage to the structure and leave it more vulnerable to problems such as flooding.”

COSIC has traditionally not offered cover for metal theft, but changed its policy after the rise in incidents.

As of 2013, non-ferrous metals will be included in the Church Scheme Policy, covering churches up to a maximum of £25,000.

Kevin Roberts, Chief Executive of COSIC, said an integrated approach was needed to mitigate the risk. SmartWater, a proven deterrent against metal theft, forms an important element in this.

He advised congregations to keep an eye out for unknown vehicles, ask neighbours to watch out for suspicious activity, limit vehicle access out-of-hours, ensure scaffolding and other items to access the property are secured, and work closely with the local police.

"It is apparent that as a crime metal theft is becoming more systematic and the perpetrators more organised," he said.

“Congregations should be vigilant at all times."