Stolen religious artefact recovered

Gardaí in Co Offaly have recovered a priceless religious artefact stolen from St Manchan’s Church on Friday.

Gardaí in Co Offaly have recovered a priceless religious artefact stolen from St Manchan’s Church on Friday.

The highly ornate Precious Shrine of St Manchan, was found near Doon yesterday evening and is has been secured pending forensic analysis, a Garda spokesman said.

Two men held for questioning were released by gardai last night and a file will be prepared for the Director of Public Prosecutions.

The 2ft-high shrine of yew wood and gilt bronze and is described as of priceless historical value.

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