Memorial Bench Removed After Vandalism at St Barnabas Churchyard
A church community has spoken of its anger and sadness after a memorial bench in the grounds of St Barnabas Church was deliberately damaged in what has been described as a "disgusting" act of vandalism.
The bench, located at the top of the church graveyard, was installed in memory of a loved one and has become a place of comfort and reflection for both the bereaved family and visitors paying their respects to those buried in the churchyard.
Church representatives said the damage is so severe that the family has been forced to remove the bench in the hope that it can be repaired and eventually returned to its original location.
In a statement, the church expressed its sorrow at the incident, emphasising that the bench was far more than just somewhere to sit.
"It was placed there in memory of a loved one," the statement said. "It has become a special place where the family can sit and remember, as well as providing a welcome resting place for everyone who spends precious time visiting and tending the graves of their loved ones."
The church has appealed for information from anyone who may have witnessed suspicious activity in or around the graveyard on the evening of Wednesday 30 September.
A spokesperson said: "I personally find this act of vandalism disgusting. How anyone could damage a memorial dedicated to someone who died, and which brings comfort to a bereaved family and our wider community, is beyond understanding."
The incident has sparked concern among church members and visitors, who regard the graveyard as a place of remembrance, reflection and respect.
The church has reminded people that every grave represents a loved family member or friend, urging visitors to treat both the churchyard and those who use it with care and consideration.
Anyone who witnessed the damage being caused, or who saw anything unusual in the area on the night of the incident, is asked to contact the church. Even seemingly minor details could help identify those responsible.
Despite the upset caused by the vandalism, the church remains hopeful that the much-loved memorial bench can be repaired and returned to its rightful place in the near future.
