Cruel vandals strike at the Impact Community Church

Community Pastor Lee Marsland pictured at the scene of the vandalism at the Impact Community Church

Locals are in a state of shock after vandals struck at the Impact Community Church Century Garden on Byron Street in Hollinwood overnight (Wednesday/Thursday).

Hundreds of pounds worth of damage was caused when vandals ransacked the community garden and stole a number of items.

After securing help from government grants, council officials and lots of local volunteers to create a welcoming and purposeful garden facility at the side of the former St James' Church over the past 12 months, the attack has proved to be a major blow for Community Pastor Lee Marsland.

He told the Chronicle: "When I arrived this morning I looked and realised that all the wood had been taken from the planting area.

"Some of the vegetables growing in that area were due to be specifically for the local foodbank. so that's affected us badly.

"It's really set us back a lot because the garden is connected to everything we do in the community.

"One of the things we've always done best here is reach out to the community because we are a community church, and not just a place people can come to on a Sunday.

"A number of wooden railway sleepers have been taken, at least 10 maybe, and they cost us around £1,800 when we bought them. 

"It's such a shame, but I'm more disappointed really, because as I say, we have always reached out to the community. We'd give out our last pound.

"Some of the community out there are really angry about this. They see what we do at this church.

"Everyone is just baffled as to why someone would do something like this."

The police, who will have access to cctv footage, are investigating the attack.