Church Graves Desecrated and Historic Windows Damaged in Third Vandalism Attack
St John the Evangelist Church in Abram, Wigan, was targeted in three separate acts of vandalism over several days, culminating in the desecration of at least six graves and damage to historic stained-glass windows dating back to 1838.
St John the Evangelist Church in Abram, Wigan, was subjected to three separate acts of vandalism over several days. The incidents included the desecration of at least six graves within the churchyard and damage to irreplaceable historic stained-glass windows that had been relocated from an earlier church building dating to 1838.
The most recent attack took place between 01:00 and 03:00 on 9 June 2026. During the incidents, gravestones and grave monuments were reportedly damaged, while multiple church windows protected by metal mesh were smashed. The church described the attacks as "heartbreaking" and noted that repairs to the historic windows would cost thousands of pounds, placing additional financial pressure on the parish.
"Trying to be positive - but if our church closes - what will happen to worship, to the churchyard, to the craft club, to the Wednesday breakfasts and everything else we try?", the church stated.
Greater Manchester Police described the incidents as "completely unacceptable and deeply upsetting to our local community" and confirmed that CCTV footage of the suspected offenders had been obtained. A police investigation is ongoing, and officers have appealed for witnesses and information that may help identify those responsible.
Source: bbc.com, gbnews, wigantoday
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