Two men were chased by police at the palace but one escaped

Police were called to Bishopthorpe Palace near York on Wednesday by an eye-witness who spotted two men removing lead from the roof.

Officers were on the scene in minutes and pursued the men as they tried to flee, arresting one shortly after.

It is not known if Dr John Sentamu was at the 13th Century palace at the time of the alleged attempted theft.

Suspect at large

North Yorkshire Police are continuing to hunt the second man seen on the roof after he managed to escape.

A spokesman said: "Officers arrived on the scene within minutes and gave chase as the suspects fled.

"One of the suspects, a 26-year-old local man, was arrested."

Dr John Sentamu was appointed in 2005

"The other managed to evade capture and is still being sought by the police.

"He is described as white, aged 30 to 40, with dark hair and was wearing a dark-coloured jacket."

The arrest followed an earlier report of lead theft activity at the property, which is believed to have occurred during the past two to three days.

The palace is the official residence of Dr Sentamu, who was appointed in 2005, and is located on the outskirts of York, close to the River Ouse.

It was built in the 13th Century on the site of a former manor.

Witnesses or anyone with information that could help trace the outstanding suspect are urged to contact police.