Early in the morning of 29 December 2020, the windows to our Lady chapel were smashed with a piece of concrete or large object. The offender deliberately targeted this section which is above the existing stainless steel protective window guards (due to be replaced).

A second incident also occurred later the same morning, with more of the adjacent windows in the lady chapel area being smashed, and our parish staff suffering verbal abuse, including calling us 'parasitic Christians'. An individual was later arrested and charged. Unfortunately, this was not an isolated incident, and we have had been targeted for other attacks such as antisocial behaviour inside the church (including sitting on the altar and removing the altar cross, and abusive behaviour towards our staff and volunteers).

These incidents have caused us distress, as well as considerable damage to the windows. Please help us to respond:

* Repair the glass and leadwork

* Extend the area protected by window guards

* Increase our other security measures on the outside of the church.

Holy Cross parish has been on this site for 200 years, serving the people of Leicester and welcoming all to our church. With your help we can prevent vandalism and deter antisocial behaviour, and continue to provide a warm welcome to all who wish to pray, worship and socialise here.