Shocking amount of crimes at Norfolk churches revealed
The figures, gathered by a Freedom of Information request submitted by the Countryside Alliance, seem to suggest that sacred sites across the county are under siege by criminals.
In 2025, there were 21 burglaries, 36 cases of violence against a person, 37 thefts and 52 cases of arson and criminal damage at the places of worship.
It means churches in Norfolk are hit an average of about three times a week by criminals.
The director of external affairs for the Countryside Alliance, Mo Metcalf-Fisher, said: “Across the country, churches and places of worship continue to suffer, as vandals, thieves and other criminals treat them as easy targets.
“We cannot allow this to continue.
"Churches and places of worship are focal points for local communities, particularly in rural towns and villages where they play a crucial role in combatting isolation.
"It is vital that the public keep a watchful eye and report any issues to the police.”
Notable incidents
Stone-throwing vandals caused almost £12,000 of damage at the Minster Church of St Nicholas in Great Yarmouth by smashing a window on May 22, 2025.
A window was broken by vandals (Image: Supplied)
Elsewhere in the county, two arson attacks rocked St Nicholas Church in Dereham last year.
The first happened on February 21, when a paschal candle and its holder were left damaged by a deliberately ignited blaze.
St Nicholas Church in Dereham (Image: Adrian Judd)
Just 24 hours later, a Laudian cloth, a decorative piece of material, was also set alight.
The communion table, which was covered by the cloth, and the carpet underneath it were left charred by the fire.
What do police have to say?
Norfolk Constabulary says churches remain as attractive targets for criminals.
But officers are working with communities and specialist teams to tackle offending and protect the county’s historic sites.
A spokeswoman for the force said: "As a force, we continue to work closely with our religious communities across the county, in both rural and urban areas.
"The very nature of these buildings can often make them vulnerable to incidents of anti‑social behaviour, theft, and criminal damage.
Police have described churches as "vulnerable" to crime. (Image: Newsquest)
"Our local teams will always look for opportunities to take positive action against those who commit such offences.
"In addition, the OP Randall Team works with national key stakeholders to identify any cross‑border criminality linked to high‑value heritage thefts and lead thefts.
"Fortunately, these offences have seen a sharp decline in recent years due to robust investigations and effective crime‑prevention initiatives.
"These sites are important community assets, and we urge members of the public to report any suspicious activity or criminal behaviour."
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