A group of vandals have broken into a Lancashire church and ransacked supplies intended for the vulnerable. Officers were called to the Father's House Elim Church in Lancaster on Tuesday after reports of a break-in.
Police say the group forced entry into the building before etempting the contents of the fridge and the clothes bank across the floor.
The food was due to be distributed to those in need across Lancaster. The church is currently distributing around 200 meals a week. Sadly, all the food had to be thrown away after being spoiled by the gang.
"We are sorry to say that we have had a break in last night at the church," the church wrote on Facebook following the incident.
The church said the assailants were likely on the hunt for cash when they stormed their way into the church building:
"There is quite a bit of damage done throughout the building. It seems like the person or persons was looking for cash. When they couldn’t find any (as we don’t keep any on the premises) they trashed the kitchen. They destroyed the food we had for the Community Food Poverty Café, turned the electric hob on and left the taps running as if they were trying to flood the kitchen.
"We would really appreciate any information or help?"
Photos shared by the church show clothes strewn across the sanctuary, lockboxes smashed open, filing cabinets ransacked and windows smashed.
Despite the break-in, the church confirmed that the community cafe would be open as normal on Thursday.
A spokesperson for the police said: "Today we have attended a report of a burglary at ELIM Church on Owen road in Lancaster that has occurred some point overnight on February 2.
"The suspects have forced entry into the premises and have thrown the contents of the fridge and clothes bank all over the floor.
"The food in the fridge was for approximately 170 people in need and was going to be served tomorrow lunch time (Thursday).
"That food has now been spoiled and cannot be used.
"The clothes were also for people that need them.
"This has obviously had a huge impact on the community. Please let the police know if you have any information about this matter by emailing [email protected], quoting log number LC-20210203-0247."
The police have yet to announce any arrests in connection with the case.