POLICE were called to Newmarket Road in Nailsworth at 9.20am today (Monday) following reports of vandalism to a sign outside Christ Church.

It was reported that excrement was smeared on the sign by unknown offenders and this is believed to have taken place at some point between 12pm yesterday (Sunday) and 9am today (Monday).

It was also reported that the church has been targeted at the beginning of last week too.

Residents reacted with disgust and horror after hearing the news, with many commenting on the Nailsworth Chat and Information Facebook page.

One person posted: "Sorry to see this has happened again. It’s very attention seeking on their part. It is also a health hazard. Prayers for the church and importantly prayers for the person who has done this."

And another wrote: "So appalled. I am not religious, but live a Christian life of giving and helping others. I just don't understand why people feel the need to be so disrespectful and destructive."

And another said: "This is disgusting. I’m not religious, but we should respect that this is a religious building with meaning to those who worship there. And that this banner was handmade by an individual."

Officers are asking anyone with information or CCTV footage to please get in contact by completing the following online form and referencing incident 72 of 12 April: gloucestershire.police.uk/tua/tell-us-about/cor/tell-us-about-existing-case-report/

Information can also be submitted by calling 101.