THERE are fears a closed Portland church is becoming a target for vandals after the building was ransacked.

Elders were dismayed to learn the United Reformed Church in Chiswell had been broken into.

A window was smashed in the adjoining schoolroom and bags of knitted clothes and toys destined for needy children in Third World countries were scattered over the floor.

Bibles in the church were also thrown around and a stereo system was damaged – although nothing was stolen.

The break-in happened a week after a thanksgiving service was held at the church to mark its closure.

Dwindling numbers at services prompted the move, despite efforts by a small band of people to raise funds and keep it open.

Church elder Betty Burden, of Fortuneswell, said: “Following on from the closure of our church, this is very distressing. It was sheer vandalism as nothing was taken.

“The building is vulnerable because it is not being used anymore and it’s a horrible feeling to know people are targeting it to cause havoc.”

It is understood the intruders broke a window at the back of the church. They scattered items in bags which church members have been collecting over the months for the Samaritan Purse Christmas Child Appeal.

Mrs Burden, who is reporting the break-in to police, said: “We are due to give these items to another church as ours is now closed. They make up the boxes which are sent abroad and given to children at Christmas.

“Fortunately nothing was taken but it’s the inconvenience and the fact these people have broken into a church which is upsetting.”

The United Reformed Church was founded in 1825 when the people of Chiswell, the oldest settlement on the island, banded together and converted a barn and stable into a place of worship. The congregation has declined but several people including Mrs Burden have tried to keep it going.

The Rev Bob Damer led the last service on Sunday September 27.

Anyone with information about the break-in can contact police in confidence on 01305 222222 or Crimestoppers.