Crucifix set alight and 40 headstones vandalised in ‘senseless' attack on Scots cemetery
Locals shared their fury and disappointment at the ' destructive violence ' as photos of the mess were shared on social media
'DISGUSTING' Crucifix set alight and 40 headstones vandalised in 'senseless' attack on Scots cemetery
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A WOODEN crucifix has been set alight, and around 40 headstones have been vandalised in a "senseless" attack in a Scottish cemetery.
Families have been left "distraught" after finding out their loved one's headstones were "demolished" in an act of "destructive violence".
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Around 40 headstones were damaged in a 'senseless' attack
Credit: PA
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A five-metre-high wooden crucifix was also set on fire
Credit: PA
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Vandals attacked St Conval's Cemetery on Glasgow Road in Barrhead
Credit: Facebook
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Piles of mess were also left inside the cemetery
Credit: Facebook
The incident happened today at St Conval's Cemetery, located on Glasgow Road in Barrhead, East Renfrewshire.
It is believed that the culprits struck sometime during the night or in the early hours of the morning.
The Diocese of Paisley reported that the thugs attacked around 40 headstones after entering the cemetery grounds.
Some of which were so badly damaged that they were left "demolished".
A five-metre-high wooden crucifix was also set on fire.
The Bishop of Paisley, Bishop John Keenan, slammed those responsible after finding the mess.
I am saddened and dismayed by this senseless vandalism and the destructive violence behind it
Bishop John Keenan
He said: 'I am saddened and dismayed by this senseless vandalism and the destructive violence behind it.
'My thoughts and prayers are with the families who have had headstones attacked, as well as with the whole community of relatives and friends who visit St Conval's and care for the graves of their loved ones so tenderly.'
The bishop added: 'My gratitude goes to the St Conval's staff who maintain the grounds and administer the cemetery and who now face the distressing task of repairing and making safe damaged graves while comforting distraught families.'
A spokesperson for the Diocese of Paisley said: 'Anyone wishing to contact the cemetery staff can do so on 0141 881 1058 or stconvalscemeteryrcdop.org.uk.'
Inside abandoned cemetery morgue with hearse & autopsy table left to rot
Officers were called to the cemetery today, and the force has now launched a probe into the incident.
A Police Scotland spokesperson said: 'Around 8.50am on Sunday, 29 June, 2025, we received a report of vandalism at a cemetery in Glasgow Road, Hurlet, Barrhead.
'Inquiries are at an early stage.
'Anyone with any information is asked to contact police on 101, quoting reference number 1089 of 29 June.'
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