Ref. 29997--27Vandals smashed their way into a Lyneham church and hall causing several thousand pounds worth of damage to steal just a few pounds and a chocolate Easter egg.

Teenagers are being blamed for the attacks on St Joseph's Church and St Michael's Church Hall, in Calne Road.

Both are believed to have happened sometime after 9pm on Thursday.

Barbara Taylor, who has been the warden of St Michael's for 16 years said this was the sixth time in eight years that the hall, which lies next to the church, has been targeted.

The bill for the damage has been put at £5,000.

"It's getting bad five years ago we were forced to put bars in behind the door to prevent it from being kicked in," said Mrs Taylor,

She was alerted to the break-in early the following morning by a passer-by.

The intruders entered by smashing a large French door on the side of the hall.

They then kicked in an office door and fled with a set of keys and a collection box containing just a few pounds destined for a meningitis charity.

Once police had gathered evidence members of the congregation, together with the choirmaster and treasurer, helped tidy up.

It is thought the same people were responsible for a similar attack on the nearby St Joseph's Church.

There about £300 worth of damage was done after two large windows were smashed to gain access.

Once inside, the intruders ripped up furniture before escaping with a slice of chocolate cake and an Easter egg.

Mrs Taylor said: "I would like those responsible to be caught and made to answer to both congregations, who have been distressed by these attacks.

"This happened when the doors were locked.

"There is no way that wardens can keep churches open these days with people like these around.

"It's sad because a lot of people like to come to churches for silent prayer."

WPC Julie Mason, of Wootton Bassett police station, believes both incidents are linked.

She said: "Lyneham has a problem with under-age drinking and associated anti-social behaviour.

"I am under the impression that local youths are responsible for both incidents.

"There was no need for such wanton vandalism in churches.

"It's extremely disrespectful and I am keen to speak to anyone particularly youths who have information."

WPC Mason can be contacted on 01793 852213.

Kevin Shoesmith