A SCHOOLBOY is leading the charge to raise money for two Bournemouth churches hit by a spate of lead thefts.

Charlie Cutler has started a campaign to encourage teachers, pupils and their families to give donations to help St Peter’s and St Stephen’s in the town centre.

The King’s Park Primary School pupil wants to help the churches by inspiring everybody to donate towards replacing the lost lead.

Charlie said: “I would like to raise some money from the teachers and pupils of King’s Park Primary to help the church in order for them to be able to repair the roof.

“If we could all bring in contributions it would all add up between us all helping.

“Every bit helps so let’s do our bit.”

A man has been caught after the last thefts at St Stephen’s.

The latest spate at the Grade I listed church follows the theft of £100,000 worth of metal last year with water causing damage as it leaks in as a result.

The Rev Ian Terry, team rector for the town centre parish, welcomed Charlie’s efforts Dr Terry said: “Charlie is a great enthusiast, and his positive enthusiasm for joining together in helping others is just what we need.

“The repairs will cost St Peter’s church well over £20,000, and may cost St Stephen’s even more.

“All help is very welcome. We are so grateful to Charlie.”