Police are treating the vandalism of a war memorial crucifix at St Alban's Church in Warrington as a hate crime after Christ's head was smashed off ahead of Remembrance Sunday. Cheshire Police are appealing for information after the figure of Christ outside the church was targeted last weekend.
Damage discovered before Sunday Mass
The damage was discovered at 9.23am on Sunday 1st November by a member of the congregation. Police have established there have been several incidents in the area and believe the damage may have occurred between 6pm and 10pm on Friday 30th October. Scrawled on the memorial were the words "no cross shit y".
Speaking to parishioners attending Sunday morning Mass, parish priest Canon Christopher Cunningham urged the community to remain united, calling on people to "stick together" and maintain strength in their faith.
Police appeal for information
Cheshire Police have released grainy CCTV footage of someone they wish to speak to regarding the vandalism. Chief Inspector Joseph McNally, of Cheshire Police, said: "The vandalism of a war memorial is particularly upsetting as these sites exist to honour those who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country."
He added: "This type of behaviour is completely unacceptable and has a significant impact on those who use and support the church, as well as the wider community. Places of worship should be safe and welcoming environments, and we are committed to identifying those responsible for this incident."
Cheshire Police said their officers are keen to hear from anyone who witnessed any suspicious behaviour around the church or war memorial during this time. They are also asking residents and motorists to review any CCTV, doorbell, dashcam or mobile phone footage that may assist the investigation.
Chief Insp McNally added: "We believe the damage occurred during the evening hours and I would particularly urge anyone who was in the vicinity of St Alban's Church between 6pm and 10pm over the weekend to come forward if they saw anything suspicious.
"We are especially keen to hear from anyone who may have CCTV, doorbell, dashcam or mobile phone footage from the area that could help identify those involved. We understand the concern incidents such as this can cause within the community, and we are working closely with local partners and church representatives as part of our investigation."
Community reaction and church history
On Facebook, parishioner Alice Hughes Froggatt said: "I am beyond saddened to hear of this awful desecration of the holy crucifix. All I can say is, 'Father forgive them for they know not what they do' what a broken world we live in. Praying for you. God bless you tonight and always."
Tricia Reilly said: "So sorry to hear about that awful desecration - hard to pray for cruel, nasty people but we must - l hope it can be restored."
The monument holds the names of the local church community who served during the First and Second World Wars. Founded in 1772, St Alban's is Warrington's oldest existing Catholic parish and holds Grade II listed status, reflecting its historic importance to the town's religious heritage. The church's architectural history includes part of its sanctuary, designed in 1893 by Peter Paul Pugin, son of Augustus Pugin - famous for his work on the Palace of Westminster.
Anyone with information should contact Cheshire Police on 101 or via the website, quoting IML 2449856. Alternatively, information can be provided anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
