A PARISH priest was recovering today after his car was stoned in a terrifying attack.

Father Philip Boast was leaving St Joseph's Church in Stacksteads at about 8pm on Saturday night after giving mass.

Father Boast, who was taking a parishioner home after the service, was leaving his driveway in Huttock End Lane when his car was pelted with stones.

The attack left the front and side windows smashed, several dents in the car and both Father Boast and the passenger badly shaken.

Police have launched an investigation and are appealing for witnesses.

Officers also believe the attack may have been connected to an earlier incident in which a youth entered the church during the service and started shouting obscenities.

Community Beat Manager Nick Stratton said: " This was an appalling incident and we would urge anyone with information or who witnessed this to get to touch by calling 01282 425001, 01282 472955 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111."