VANDALS have attacked St Joseph's RC Church, Stacksteads, smashing a number of windows including four of stained glass.

Parish priest Fr Peter Boast discovered the damage as he arrived to prepare for services on Sunday morning.

The stained glass windows on the side which face the houses in Huttock End Lane were damaged.

The culprits had also been on to the roof of the sacristy, the room where the sacred utensils and vestments are kept, and smashed more windows.

Fr Boast said: "I think it is a case of vandalism rather than anything else. We don't think anyone has been into the church."

He added: "The cost of the damage has not yet been fully assessed but certain security measures will have to be taken".

He said: "Chunks of the stained glass windows have been knocked out and the skylights have also been smashed. It is a terrible thing to happen."

The church was the victim of a similar incident some time ago when windows at the opposite side of the church were smashed.

Police have been informed of the incident which happened between Saturday and Sunday morning.

Anyone who witnessed the incident or who has information which could help police inquiries is asked to contact Rossendale CID on 01706 237442 or ring Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.