Church to pay £9k on security after attacks
A CHURCH will have to spend £9,000 on security after repeated vandal attacks and a break-in.
Window guards must be fitted at St David’s in the centre of Maesteg after three attacks in as many weeks.
There are now five windows boarded up in the 160-year-old church.
The Reverend Geraldine Blyth said it’s the first time in her 11 years in the parish that she’s experienced anything like it.
“Some of the elderly people have been worshipping here their whole lives and feel as though it’s an attack on them,” she said.
At the end of May, a side window in the sanctuary was broken and thieves stole around £40 from a flower collection and a fund to raise money to refurbish the church hall.
Then vandals attacked the same window again, attempting to pull out the century-old leading, and also smashed panels in others, leaving a rock lodged in one.
The third attack took place in broad daylight and left a main window smashed.
The Rev Blyth said: “The thieves took all the money that was in the church and are now taking the very fabric of the building.
“While we are insured (for the windows), we have to pay an excess of £500 for each claim.
“I appeal to everyone to be vigilant on our behalf and report any suspicious behaviour and I ask those who are responsible for the vandalism to stop such senseless attacks on an historic and much-loved building.”
She has been quoted £9,000 to have see-through guards fitted to the outside of the windows, which is not covered by insurance. But she hopes to secure a grant to cover the cost.
Police are investigating and have stepped up patrols.
Maesteg Sector Inspector Ross Crutcher said: “Places of worship can be very challenging to secure with wardens routinely having to balance accessibility with security.
“It is so important that our communities watch out for such assets and we would welcome any information from the public which may assist with identifying those responsible for such mindless vandalism and criminal activity.
“Tackling antisocial behaviour in the town centre, which covers the church, is a PACT priority – a priority which was renewed at Thursday’s PACT meeting.
“Our neighbourhood officers have stepped up patrols in the area and are working closely with the church and the local community to resolve the issue. We will take positive action against anyone found to be targeting what is a vital community asset.”