Appeal following criminal damage to Fountains Abbey

We're appealing for information after Fountains Abbey, a world-heritage site on the outskirts of Ripon managed by the National Trust, was targeted by vandals.

The incident happened sometime between 6pm on Friday 14 February and 9am on Sunday 17 February when graffiti was painted onto both the abbey and St Mary's Church.

As the paint used is oil-based, and has been applied to medieval plasterwork, it is likely to result in considerable damage to this Grade 1 listed structure.

Sergeant Danny Copperwheat from North Yorkshire Police’s Neighbourhood Policing Team said: "This is an appalling act of vandalism on a world-renowned heritage site. North Yorkshire Police will not tolerate these types of acts, and our officers will work tirelessly to bring those responsible to justice.

"We want to hear from anyone who has any information about the people responsible for this mindless act.”

If you have any information that could help our investigation, or saw anyone acting suspiciously in this area at the time of the offence, please email [email protected].

Alternatively, you can call North Yorkshire Police on 101, and ask for Danny Copperwheat, or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or via their website.

Please quote reference 12250029494 when passing on information.