A VICAR today spoke of his sadness over a group of glue-sniffing youngsters who have caused havoc at his medieval East Yorkshire church.

The group of teenagers - male and female - have been targeting All Saints' Church in the centre of Pocklington. Over the last year they are thought to be responsible for a number of thoughtless acts of vandalism in and around the building.

These include breaking into the church and stealing money, loitering outside drinking alcohol and glue-sniffing, and spraying graffiti on church property.

Bottles of nail varnish have also been found by police officers outside the building.

The Rev Hugh Prosser said he found the vandalism upsetting, and has even been forced to close the church during the afternoon to stop the teenagers gaining access.

He said: "My church is not alone in being vandalised. A small group of teenagers have been causing absolute havoc. They have messed up my church on a number of occasions, which is extremely sad to see."

He added: "Money that has been collected from different services has also been taken."

Sergeant Peter Rogers, of Pocklington police, said they had received a number of reports from local residents about the youths - thought to be around 14 years old - and officers were keeping an eye on the building.

He said: "We have reason to believe that some of the teenagers are sniffing glue, and we've collected a number of empty alcohol bottles from around the building.

"I don't think people are particularly intimidated by the group, however, I imagine it's very distressing more than anything for people to see. Plus it's a big inconvenience for the church and the vicar."

He said that officers were patrolling the church, particularly at the weekend, and were looking out for anyone acting suspiciously.

He urged local residents to continue to be watchful and report any incident to Pocklington police on 01759 302174.

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