Dismay after vandals break Shifnal church window

A protective grate across the window at St Andrew's Church in Shifnal was removed before a section of the William Morris window was broken.

The yobs then climbed an external staircase at the church to smash more leaded windows.

The Rev Chris Thorpe said he had been saddened by the attack but felt "overwhelmed" by the support they have had from the people of Shifnal.

It is believed the attack happened on Sunday night following an outdoor service held from 4pm to 6pm.

Mr Thorpe said: "It must have been after that, because we came down on Monday morning and found that somebody had pulled back one of the protective grilles. They had very deliberately smashed the bottom part of the window.

"It is actually a piece of writing from a series of William Morris windows so it is very special. Each of the windows has text beneath it, we have no idea how it is going to be replaced."

Mr Thorpe said the church was now going to speak to its insurers, architects and conservationists in a bid to get the window replaced. Pictures have been found of the window in all its glory which it is hoped can be used to get any new pieces made to match the originals.

It is hoped that the church's insurance will cover the costs of the damage and that the church will only have to pay an excess, but it is not yet known.

He added: "Obviously the stained glass window will be the hardest to replace but they also climbed some external stairs to the bell tower and smashed two leaded windows up there."

Mr Thorpe added that he had been amazed by the support that he had received from people in the community, who have already offered to help with fundraising to get the windows repaired. He said: "We have had an overwhelming response locally. A huge number of residents in Shifnal have expressed their feelings about it."

Anyone with any information can call Mr Thorpe on (01952) 463694.