Vandals break into Essex church causing £15k damage for second time in a month

Two teenagers have been arrested on suspicion of criminal damage after a church was vandalised near Basildon. Police received reports of two suspects forcing entry to St Margaret’s Church in Bowers Gifford at about 1.10pm on Sunday November 24.

Once inside the pair reportedly caused more than £15,000 of damage to the building and its contents. Officers were at the scene within 15 minutes of the report, including a dog unit with PD Obi, and quickly arrested two boys, aged 15 and 16, on suspicion of criminal damage and burglary.

Items believed to be stolen from the church were also found. The two teenagers were questioned and released on police bail while police enquiries continue. It is the second time this month that vandals broke into the same church causing damage.

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On October 29 this year, vandals used a heavy stone bird-bath as a “battering ram” to gain access to the church. Beloved items inside the church were damaged, such as relics and stained glass windows. Outside, a grave was damaged, alongside iron gates.

Adam Pipe, head of Roads Policing, said: “This kind of reckless offending requires this kind of swift response. “Our officers continue to investigate this incident and anyone with additional information should contact us.”

Quote incident number 728 of Sunday November 24 with any information. You can let them know by submitting a report on their website or by using them online Live Chat service which is available 24 hours-a-day, seven days-a-week. Alternatively, you can call 101. If you would like to make an anonymous report you can contact independent charity @Crimestoppers, by visiting their website or by calling 0800 555 111.