The Courier & Advertiser (Angus and Dundee)
Vandals slammed after desecration of historic 12th Century kirk site
R churchampaging vandals have left vomit and excrement at a 12th Century in Fife. They also damaged a fence closing off St Bridget’s Kirk in Dalgety Bay, which dates back to the 1100s, and defaced the historic site.
The kirk, which was once run by the canons of Inchcolm Abbey, appears to have been used as a drinking den. Broken glass was scattered over medieval gravestones.
A spokesperson for Historic Environment Scotland (HES), which manages the site, said: “We were disappointed to discover scattered broken glass on the grass and gravestones at St Bridget’s
Kirk, as well as human excrement and vomit inside the main hall.”
“In recent weeks, we have discovered evidence of antisocial behaviour at Aberdour Castle and St Bridget’s Kirk while both sites are currently closed to visitors,” the HES spokesperson said.
“As well as the significant littering of items such as alcohol containers and cigarette ends suggesting people are gathering at the sites, an interpretation board was ripped from the wall in the bedchambers at Aberdour Castle and thrown from a window and a fence panel at St Bridget’s Kirk was damaged to gain access to a restricted part of the site.”
Police Scotland is working with HES to investigate the damage to St Bridget’s Kirk and also vandalism at Aberdour Castle the previous day.
The HES spokesperson added: “Not only do such acts cause damage to our precious historic assets, but they also divert important resources away from essential conservation and maintenance work across our estate.
“We are working closely with Police Scotland and the local community to discourage trespassing at our sites and those that are actively found to do so can be subject to prosecution.”
HES is encouraging members of the public to contact police if they witness antisocial behaviour at their sites.
Sergeant Kate Blackwell said officers received a report of vandalism and littering at Aberdour Castle on Monday March 1.
Sgt Blackwell added: “On Tuesday March 2, we were made aware of damage and waste left at St Bridget’s Kirk in Dalgety Bay.
“Inquiries into both incidents are at an early stage.
“Local officers patrol these areas on a regular basis and will continue to do so.
“Anyone who has concerns about antisocial behaviour in their community is encouraged to contact police by calling 101 as promptly as possible.”
“We
were disappointed to discover scattered broken glass on the grass and gravestones... and vomit inside the main hall