‘Someone could have died’ after ‘weapon’ used to target Staveley church

Police are investigating after holes were found in windows at Staveley Methodist Church in Chesterfield Road this month.

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Similar holes have also appeared in stained glass windows at St John the Baptist Church in Church Street, Staveley.

A spokesperson for Derbyshire Constabulary said the holes ‘appear to have been made by small plastic pellets’.

Reverend Richard Harris, minister at Staveley Methodist Church, told the Derbyshire Times: “This is like an attack on the whole community – the church is used by many people.

“It’s an act of mindless vandalism and I think the most worrying thing about it all is that it appears some sort of weapon was used.

“If somebody had been inside the church at the time and was hit by an object, it could have been life-threatening.”

Rev Harris said work to repair the damage would take place in the coming days.

“I hope whoever is responsible is found and brought to justice soon,” he added.

Father Stephen Jones, rector at St John the Baptist Church, said the damage there would have to be dealt with through insurance.

Local Councillor Mick Bagshaw said he was ‘saddened’ to learn about the churches being targeted.

He added: “There are a number of crime concerns in the area.

“I’d like to see a joint surgery which people can attend to raise concerns with police and councillors and find out what’s going to be done.

“I’d also like to see Staveley police station reopen to the public – we need a more visible police presence.”

Commenting on the criminal damage at the churches on the Staveley Police Safer Neighbourhood Team Facebook page, Tracey Sweetie said: “So disrespectful.”

Kerri-lea Garfoot asked: “What is wrong with people?”

Anyone with information about the offences – which were reported to have happened on the evening of August 7 or the early hours of August 8 – should call police on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

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