Surge in Criminal Activity Hits Churches Across Greater Manchester
Churches in Greater Manchester are facing a growing wave of criminal incidents, with hundreds of cases reported over the past two years, according to recent data. The figures, compiled from records held by Greater Manchester Police and obtained by the Countryside Alliance, highlight a rise in thefts, acts of criminal damage, and instances of violence targeting these community landmarks.
Between 2022 and 2024, police documented a significant number of crimes at religious sites across the region. These include numerous reports of theft and vandalism, as well as an uptick in violent encounters. One notable case occurred in October 2023 at Our Lady of Grace Church in Prestwich, where an 84-year-old woman was pursued into the building and robbed of an envelope containing £500 from her handbag.
Other incidents have involved the theft of valuable religious artefacts. At St. Luke’s Church on Swinton Park Road in Irlams o' th' Height, Salford, several large statues were stolen last year, including a historic 100-year-old depiction of Jesus on a crucifix, along with figures of a kneeling angel and St. Bernadette. More recently, in April of this year, a 7kg charity Easter egg intended for a raffle fundraiser was taken from the United Reformed Church in Heaton Moor, depriving the community of potential funds.
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In addition to these thefts, churches have been affected by suspected arson attacks in recent years. The Church of the Ascension in Salford, a site of historical significance, and the abandoned St. Thomas Church in Leigh have both been damaged by major fires, with these events occurring within the last decade and raising concerns about the vulnerability of such buildings.
Local authorities and community leaders have yet to outline specific measures to address the trend, but the data underscores the increasing risks faced by places of worship in the area. As investigations continue, there is growing alarm over the impact on both cultural heritage and community safety in Greater Manchester.
Between 2022 and 2024, police documented a significant number of crimes at religious sites across the region. These include numerous reports of theft and vandalism, as well as an uptick in violent encounters. One notable case occurred in October 2023 at Our Lady of Grace Church in Prestwich, where an 84-year-old woman was pursued into the building and robbed of an envelope containing £500 from her handbag.
Other incidents have involved the theft of valuable religious artefacts. At St. Luke’s Church on Swinton Park Road in Irlams o' th' Height, Salford, several large statues were stolen last year, including a historic 100-year-old depiction of Jesus on a crucifix, along with figures of a kneeling angel and St. Bernadette. More recently, in April of this year, a 7kg charity Easter egg intended for a raffle fundraiser was taken from the United Reformed Church in Heaton Moor, depriving the community of potential funds.
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In addition to these thefts, churches have been affected by suspected arson attacks in recent years. The Church of the Ascension in Salford, a site of historical significance, and the abandoned St. Thomas Church in Leigh have both been damaged by major fires, with these events occurring within the last decade and raising concerns about the vulnerability of such buildings.
Local authorities and community leaders have yet to outline specific measures to address the trend, but the data underscores the increasing risks faced by places of worship in the area. As investigations continue, there is growing alarm over the impact on both cultural heritage and community safety in Greater Manchester.
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