The Holy Trinity Church in Telford is still being repaired

Several churches have been set alight in recent months, with the latest attack happening at St Peter's Church, Monksmoor, Shrewsbury, shortly before Christmas.

The West Mercia Local Arson Task Force has produced a set of guidelines in response to the threat.

They include advice about security and housekeeping and tips about how to secure church property at night.

'Growing problem'

Other arson attacks that have taken place within the diocese - which covers Staffordshire, north Shropshire and parts of the Black Country - include one that destroyed part of the Holy Trinity Church in Dawley, Telford, in October.

The church is still being repaired and its congregation has been forced to worship at a local school.

The Archdeacon of Shropshire, the Venerable John Hall, said: "I don't think churches are being specifically targeted... but the number of attacks is on the increase and that's what this guidance aims to help prevent."

Martin Timmis from Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service said: "Arson is a growing problem and attacks on churches are now becoming a more frequent event.

"By working with the diocese and offering advice, we hope to reverse this trend."

The West Mercia Local Arson Task Force is made up of staff from West Mercia Police, Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service and Hereford and Worcester Fire Brigade.