POLICE are appealing for witnesses after St Lawrence Church was badly vandalised on Saturday. At some time between 1 pm and 3-45 pm, vandals entered the church through the unlocked door on Church Street in Alton. Extensive damage was caused, including a large earthenware vase and a glass cabinet being smashed, bouquets of flowers left scattered across the floor, the Christmas tree was knocked over and several display stands were damaged. Vicar Peter Doores told The Herald: "Everything that was loose was tipped over the floor or damaged. We gathered a group of kind helpers together and we have managed to clear up all the mess. "We leave the church open because people like to go and reflect, particularly at Christmas time. The church is also of interest to tourists who visit because of it's historic roots and the link with the battle of Alton. For the most part, though, we have no problem." The damage was discovered on Saturday afternoon when the director of music went to the church to practice the organ. Along with the damage, empty lager cans were found inside the porch of the main entrance. Investigating officer Pc Warren Macklin said: "This sort of mindless vandalism is despicable. I would like to hear from anyone who saw anyone entering or leaving the church on Saturday afternoon or people in the area of the church carrying cans of lager." Rev Doores added: "People were shocked to see what had happened, but we've cleared it up and we will continue to leave the doors open in daylight hours for the people of Alton and others to enjoy." Anyone with any information should contact Pc Macklin at Alton Police Station on 0845 045 45 45 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111
