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Mindless vandals go on rampage in churchyard

29/11/2001

VANDALS went on the rampage at a Pendlebury churchyard causing thousands of pounds worth of damage to 35 gravestones.

Several of the headstones at St John the Evangelist in Pendlebury were pushed over and smashed while others, many cross-shaped, were vandalised.

The mindless acts occurred sometime between Thursday, November 15 and 17.

The Rev Sue Timmins from the Bolton Road church says the repair bills could run into thousands and is now concerned families of loved ones buried there will be unaware of the damage .

She added the church wouldn't be able to cover the cost and is appealing for the help of local people to help trace relatives.

Mr Timmins said: "To see such vandalism is distressing both for those whose family graves have been affected and also for others visiting the churchyard.

"We are trying to contact the families but it is very difficult as many have long since moved away from the area. They need to be contacted before the stones can be restored, so we would be grateful for any help the community can offer in trading contacts.

"The police are keeping a close eye on the area, but if anyone sees anything at all suspicious please contact them immediately. Our churchyard is a very special place to many of our community and we want to do our best to keep it safe.