Isle of Wight church employed security staff to guard coffin overnight following break-ins
Newport UK November 16 2018
Church leaders at St Thomas of Canterbury Catholic Church in Pyle Street, Newport, felt they had no choice but to take extra precautions following a spate of break-ins — described by one parishioner as a hate crime.
Vandals — or possibly a former parishioner with a grudge — targeted the church and social centre three times in just eight days, breaking in overnight last Saturday, and again on Thursday and Sunday last week.
Doors and windows were damaged as they forced their way into the building, and a cupboard was smashed inside, but nothing was taken.
So concerned were church leaders they might strike again, security staff were employed the night before a funeral on Tuesday to guard the deceased.
Parishioner and committee member Andy Taggart said: “Following the break-in on Sunday, we had to employ a security guard to patrol the grounds and ensure no one was able to break in before the funeral.
“If it was vandals, we think they would have broken into the church and hall and tried to steal something or smash things. All they have done is break windows and doors but nothing else.
“That’s why we think it might be a hate crime — possibly by a parishioner who has developed a vendetta against us. It is very upsetting for the parish.”
The doors and windows have now been repaired and church officials are considering installing security cameras.
Parish secretary Margi Timney said: “We are all very alarmed and concerned. This happened at Newport Congregational Church next door at the beginning of the year, now it looks like we will have to pay for security cameras.
“We pray for those who have chosen to vandalise church property.”
Police have launched a burglary investigation following the break-ins and have urged anyone who witnessed the break-ins, or knows anything, to get in touch.
Anyone with information can 101, quoting the reference numbers 44180415473 (the November 3 break-in), 44180421033 (November 9) or 44180425988 (November 11).
