'Shock' at vandal attack on 900-year-old South Downs church

Ancient windows and doors have been badly damaged in the attack on Buncton Chapel, All Saints Church, in a secluded spot near Wiston.

Sussex Police say it’s believed the damage happened between January 13 and January 18 and have put out an appeal for information.

A spokesperson said: “If you have heard anything regarding the damage, or saw anyone acting suspiciously near All Saints Church between 13–18 January, we ask that you come forward. Any information could be helpful. To make a report, contact police online or by calling 101 quoting reference 541 of 19/01.”

Meanwhile, people have taken to social media to share their outrage at what has happened. One said: “Heartbreaking to hear this. Such a beautiful place that means so much to so many in our community. Utterly senseless.”

Another added: “Shocked and so sorry to hear of such senseless vandalism.” And another: “This is awful. What mindless damage to a beautiful ancient place of worship.”

Yet another said: “This little church holds many memories for so many people. Those that have their loved ones buried there, the marriages and christenings. How awful, sad and disappointing that this lovely, peaceful little church has been treated with such disrespect.”

The Rev James di Castiglione, rector of the parish of Chanctonbury in which Buncton lies, said: “The vandalism has come as quite a shock to us all.

"All Saints Buncton is a very special place where many come to encounter the presence of Jesus, to pray and find God's peace in an increasingly uncertain world.

"Since Covid, we have seen a resurgence in the congregation which meets weekly on a Sunday, gathering on average 45 -50 adults and a handful of children.

"Sadly, due to falling plaster from the roof, the church has been closed since December last year and we have had to embark on a major restoration project to replace the roof with some eye-watering sums of money required to be raised.

"With this backdrop, the recent vandalism comes as a double-whammy on top of our current challenges, particularly as we seek to preserve and maintain Buncton as a holy place where people can bring their spiritual needs to God and find healing, refuge and saving help in the Lord Jesus and His love for them.”