A World Heritage site in North Yorkshire was attacked by vandals over the weekend.
Fountains Abbey, near Ripon, was vandalised between 6pm on Friday 14 February and 9am on Sunday 17 February.
In what could result in lasting damage, graffiti was painted onto both the abbey and St Mary’s Church.
Location
The paint used on the Grade I listed structure is oil-based, which can cause considerable ruin to medieval plasterwork.
Fountains Abbey dates back to 1132, and the church to the 1870s.
Sergeant Danny Copperwheat from North Yorkshire Police’s Neighbourhood Policing Team said: “This is an appalling act of vandalism on a world-renowned heritage site.
“North Yorkshire Police will not tolerate these types of acts, and our officers will work tirelessly to bring those responsible to justice.”
Officers are appealing for any information that could assist their investigation, or if anyone saw anyone acting suspiciously in the area at the time of the offence.
If you can help police, get in touch using the details below.
How to help the police
- Call North Yorkshire Police on 101, select option 2 and ask for Danny Copperwheat
- Email Danny Copperwheat
- Contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or via the website
- Quote reference number 12250029494