Parishioners left deeply distressed after incidents of vandalism in a Formby church graveyard

We are deeply saddened to share with you that last weekend and early this week, there were two incidents of vandelism in the garden of rest and Our Lady's graveyard.

A spokesperson from Our Lady’s Church said: “Coping stones were removed and smashed and some items placed by parishioners in loving memory of their deceased loved ones have been wilfully destroyed. They also chose to defecate!”

“Parishioners affected are deeply distressed as we are sure the majority of people reading this will also be very saddened and disgusted to hear.”

“Our graveyard should be a place where people can come and sit in peace, to pray, and remember their loved ones.”

“The police have been notified and will be routinely checking our grounds.”

“We are also aware individuals are using the area to smoke illegal drugs and we ask them to kindly refrain from using our sacred space. Their presence is intimidating to some of our parishioners.”

“High definition CCTV has been installed to monitor EVERY part of the church grounds now.

Whoever is capable of such thoughtless and despicable behaviour is clearly lacking something in their lives (we are certainly blessed to know the love of God in ours). We shall therefore pray for the culprit(s) and hope that their lives are turned around.”

If you know any further information with regards to the above please email ourladyofcompassionformby@rcaol.org.uk