Historic Romford Church Damaged by Apple-Throwing Vandals as Police Caution Two Teen Boys
A historic Romford church has been left with shattered windows and rising repair costs after two boys threw apples at Church House, part of St Edward’s Church, in the early hours of Friday morning (July 11).
The incident, which occurred just after midnight, resulted in several window panes being smashed, with apples and glass scattered across the floor when the parish administrator arrived later that morning.
“Really Shocking and Upsetting”
Jo Sheppard, a long-time volunteer at the church, described the damage as:
“Really shocking and upsetting – this is just another blow to us.”
She added that the church, which costs over £600 a day to run, was already under pressure due to the cost-of-living crisis, saying:
“We’re struggling anyway, and it’s so sad because we’ve been in Market Place for so long. We’re really proud of being a church in the heart of the community.”
Police Arrest and Caution Two Boys
Metropolitan Police confirmed they were called to Market Place at 12:12am following reports of criminal damage.
“Two boys had been throwing apples at the windows, resulting in several panes being broken,” a police spokesperson said.
Officers arrested two boys under the age of 18 on suspicion of criminal damage. Both received a Caution Plus 3 and have been referred to youth offending teams.
175-Year-Old Church Now Fundraising for Repairs
St Edward’s Church, believed to have origins dating back to the 1400s, is currently celebrating its 175th anniversary in its present form. The damage has prompted a public fundraising campaign to help cover repair costs to the Church House building.
Photos shared by the church show apples strewn across the floor, with multiple broken window panes.
Those wishing to support the repair effort are encouraged to visit St Edward’s Church website for more details on how to donate.
St Edward’s remains a vital community landmark in Romford. Acts of vandalism like this not only damage historic buildings but also hurt the community that depends on them.
If you witness vandalism or antisocial behaviour, contact police on 101 or visit www.met.police.uk.