Damage done at St. Nicholas in two late night incidents
Damage done to the glass door at St. Nicholas. Picture: Robin Knight
The vicar of St Nicholas church in Chiswick has asked for the public to come forward with any information about attacks that have taken place on the building on Church Street over the last week.
On the evening of Saturday 27 March after Father Simon Brandes locked the church the glass entrance doors were smashed.
Then on the night of 3 April there was more damage done to the church at around 1.30am. The harm done to the church was insufficient to prevent Easter services proceeding within lockdown guidelines.
Father Brandes said, “If anybody knows anything about the incident, I’d be grateful to hear from them.”
One parishoner observed, "The glass on the door is toughened and wouldn't be broken by a casually tossed stone. To me it looks more like someone has taken a hammer to it which implies malice aforethought."
The historic Grade II listed church the tower of which dates back to the 14th century was already making a fundraising appeal to repair crumbling masonry on the building. It is estimated that the cost will be £1.1million.
The tower was restored in 2007 but this only highlighted the state of the rest of the building which was constructed in the 19th century. The church has made a number of improvements over the last few years to make the building more flexible for a wider range of uses but the cost of making these changes is an expensive undertaking given the building’s listed status.
A police spokesperson said, "Police were called at 18:30hrs on Saturday, 27 March to reports of attempted break in to a commercial premises at Church Street, W4.
"The suspects had left the scene prior to police arrival.
Entry was not gained to the property.
"Enquiries are ongoing.
"Anyone who witnessed this incident or has footage but has not yet spoken with police should call 101 or Tweet @MetCC quoting CRIS 0505716/21."
To remain 100% anonymous call the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or visit Crimestoppers_uk.org.
If you would like to learn more about the church's fundraising project and find out how you can help or make a donation click here.
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April 6, 2021
