A holy statue was smashed during a break-in to a Catholic church.
St John Ogilvie’s Church in Blantyre, South Lanarkshire, is believed to have been targeted on Friday night.
During the break-in, a statue of St Anthony was “toppled and destroyed”.
Posting a picture of the damage on Facebook, a spokesperson for St Joseph’s RC Church, which is linked to St John Ogilvie’s, said: “Regrettably we had intruders at St John Ogilvie’s Church [on Friday night].
“Thankfully there was nothing of value to take.”
Many parishioners branded the vandalism a “disgrace” and that those involved should be “ashamed of themselves”.
Another added: “Sad day when they pick a place of worship. Pray for them and their needs.”
Police were alerted on Saturday morning and are appealing for anyone with information to get in touch.
A force spokeswoman said: “Around 8.05am on Saturday, officers were called to a report of a theft and vandalism at St John Ogilvie’s Church on Broompark Road, Blantyre.
“Enquiries are ongoing and anyone with information should contact 101.”
