Centuries-old church windows smashed in vandal attack

The ancient stained glass windows of Great Gaddesden’s Grade I-listed church have been smashed in an apparent attack by vandals.
Great Gaddesden's St John the Baptist churchGreat Gaddesden's St John the Baptist church
Great Gaddesden's St John the Baptist church

Police are appealing for information about or witnesses to the criminal damage carried out on St John the Baptist church in the village’s Pipers Hill, which took place last month, between 8pm on Tuesday, August 19, and 6.30pm the following day.

The windows, one of which was an 11th century stained glass window and another a Georgian lead wired window, were broken by objects being thrown at them.

PC Brian Evans, investigating, said: “Due to the age and historical significance of the church the criminal damage has been classed as a heritage crime – the windows which were damaged are a delicate and precious part of this historically significant site and extremely difficult and expensive to repair.

“We are working closely with the church’s curators to help safeguard this very important heritage site. Anyone who has any information or saw the damage being committed is asked to contact police immediately by calling 101.”

Call the police non-emergency number 101 quoting the crime reference D1/14/5086, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111, with information.

Officers are also urging people to sign up to become members of Heritage Watch using the county constabulary website at www.herts.police.uk/HeritageWatch.

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