Diocese launch appeal after 'vandalism' at Barrhead cemetery

Police were called to St Conval's Cemetery on Glasgow Road in Barrhead at around 8.50am on Saturday, June 29, following reports of damage to the site.

Around 40 headstones were damaged, some of which were demolished, while a large crucifix some four-metres high was set on fire during the incident.

The Diocese has established the fundraiser to provide repairs to the gravestones and has announced it will contribute an initial sum of £15,000 to formally launch the appeal.

All money donated will be distributed to the affected families and used to refurbish the damaged crucifix. 

The alleged damage (Image: Newsquest) A spokesperson for the Diocese of Paisley said: “We are incredibly grateful for the support and generosity of those who have set up online funds and to those who have donated.

“Such external funds however mean that the Diocese, which is a registered charity, cannot claim the tax back through gift aid which can add as much as an additional 25% to any donation.

“Additionally, external funds make it difficult to manage the distribution of donations to the affected families.

“Donations which come to the Diocese allow us to liaise with the owners of the lairs and fund the necessary repairs to their gravestones. 

“All money donated to the fund will be used to repair and refurbish any damage caused by the perpetrator of the recent attack.”

The alleged damage (Image: Newsquest) Following the incident, a 39-year-old man was arrested and charged in connection with alleged acts of vandalism and fire-raising at the cemetery.

It is understood he appeared at Paisley Sheriff Court on Monday, June 30.

The alleged damage (Image: Newsquest) “It would be greatly appreciated if any donations were made to our charity's fund via the St Conval's Cemetery Vandalism Fund link,” added the spokesperson.