VANDALS have launched a two-night attack on a famous county church ,causing thousands of pounds of damage, writes RICHARD WILSON.

Shocked parishioners have been helping to clear up at Madley Church this week after bricks and rocks were thrown through ancient windows.

Five separate areas were targeted and a total of 320 diamond panes smashed beyond repair. The expensive lead lining between the panes was also destroyed.

"This is the first vandalism we've had for nine years," said the Rev. Tim Jones. "We have a good relationship with local youngsters so I'm puzzled as to who might have done this," he added.

The 12th century building boasts some of the country's oldest stained glass, but most of this is protected behind security shields and was unaffected by the hooliganism.

Mr Jones said the repair work would be carried out as soon as possible.