THE HEART OF Saint Laurence O’Toole has been stolen from Christ Church Cathedral in Dublin.

Gardaí in Kevin Street are investigating the theft of the 12th century relic from Saint Lauds Chapel within the cathedral. They believe the theft occurred sometime between yesterday evening and 12.30pm today.

They are now appealing for assistance from the public.

The Heart of Saint Laurence O’Toole is kept in a wooden heart-shaped container sealed within a small iron barred box. Inside is the preserved heart of the one-time archbishop St Laurence O’Toole who was born Lorcán Ua Tuathail in Kildare in 1128.

He was canonised by Pope Honorius III in 1225.

Gardai wish to speak to anyone who may have visited Saint Lauds Chapel in Christ Church Cathedral between yesterday evening and today at 12.30pm and seen anything unusual or suspicious. They have also appealed for anyone who may be in a position to assist with the investigation to contact them at Kevin Street at 01- 6669400, the Garda Confidential Telephone Line 1800 666 111 or any Garda Station.