A CHURCH in Dursley may have to close its doors after vandals attempted to burn a cross and threw eggs at the altar, organ loft and around the gallery.

The incident at St James’ Church was reported to police at 8.50am on Sunday (August 6) by church wardens, who suspect the vandalism happened between 9.30am and 11.30am on Friday, August 4.

Church warden for the past two years, Anthea Fittall, says there hasn’t been a similar incident during her tenure, but that the property must be protected.

“Eggs were thrown at the main altar causing damage to the altar cloth that will prove difficult, if not impossible, to rectify,” said Anthea, who has visited the church since she moved to the area in 1970.

“Eggs were also thrown up into the organ loft and into the gallery, it’s going to be very difficult to clean up.

“The candle in the Tanner Chapel was knocked over and possibly there was an attempt to burn the small cross.

“The church is always open during the day for the many visitors that like to pop in and is also open for those seeking a quiet refuge for their thoughts and prayers.

“It would be a terrible shame if we have to close our doors, but the property must be protected.”

When police arrived on the scene they reported an ‘eggy mess’ on the floor, along with egg on the altar and on the silk cloth, with church members attempting to clear up the damage.

A spokesman for Dursley Town Council told the Gazette: "The Town Council are very saddened to hear of the recent mindless vandalism in St James' Church.

"Unfortunately it does seem to be a recurring theme with other areas of the town having been targeted previously.

"The Town Council would encourage those responsible to come forward, admit their actions and help with making the town a place we can be proud of rather than spoiling the church and other public areas for others."

Police are eager for witnesses to come forward while investigations continue, call 101 quoting incident 155 of Sunday, August 6 to report information.