A CHURCH in Cricklade has been hit by arsonists.

And John Hickman, the warden of St Sampson's, believes the Grade I-listed building is being deliberately targeted by youths, who have already smashed stonework and stained glass windows.

In the latest attack, which happened on Wednesday, a noticeboard was torched.

Police say the potential was there for a serious blaze.

Mr Hickman said he is growing increasingly concerned by the attacks, which seem to be getting more serious.

He said: "Acts of vandalism are much more apparent when they're on churches.

"This begs the question: Where will this stop? It shows something is not right in society.

"We discovered the damage at 6.30pm. It seems somebody set fire to a notice and the fire spread.

"Only minor damage has been caused to the entrance of the church but it could have been a lot more serious.

"The noticeboard was only put up recently. A parishioner who is skilled in carpentry made it. Now it's completely destroyed. It's very distressing."

Earlier this month two window panes were smashed and last Easter leaded windows were smashed, causing about £1,000 worth of damage.

Last February stone-work was also destroyed.

The nearby parish hall, was also broken into early last year.

"Cricklade is a nice, friendly place," said Mr Hickman. "This kind of thing is not typical and it's very worrying.

"Our main concern is that this is one of a number of acts of vandalism around the town."

Police spokesman, Graham Chivers said: "We are treating this as seriously as any other arson attack and officers will put maximum effort into tracing those responsible.

"Cricklade police has lines of inquiry to follow and it's possible young people are responsible.

Before Christmas there was also a fire at St Sampson's School and fire chiefs are still investigating the cause. Anyone with information should call police on 01793 750207.

Kevin Shoesmith