In August of 2023 we had the unpleasant task of reporting a Heritage Crime to our local police force, graffiti had been sprayed on the north wall by an idiot or idiots unknown.

When the vandalism became common knowledge a local dogwalker reported noticing someone “not wanting to be seen” at the rear of St Mary’s and an empty spray can was found close by. Fortunately St Mary’s avoided the same fate at St Bartholomew’s. That said a few bits of graffiti were found in the area and apparently one of them is a Slipknot fan or “maggot” as the band refers to its fans.

The potential perpetrator was last seen walking off in the direction of Cold Harbour Lane. The individual that sprayed “Jesus Lives” also has a reach of 1.8mtrs (6 foot).

We are now taking advice on removal of the paint from both stone and brickwork. Unfortunately, due to the friable nature of the wall and buttress we cannot just use high pressure steam or common solvents. However, one thing we do know is, it won’t be cheap!