A “rubbish” fire broke out in a church garage on Wednesday in what has been labelled as “mindless vandalism”. Emergency services attended the fire at St James Church on Roscow Avenue in Breightmet on Wednesday at around 5.20pm.
One fire engine was called and the crews extinguished the blaze with a hose reel and remained in attendance for 30 minutes. It is understood that the fire was set in the church’s garage and that it was an act of “damage and anti-social behaviour” (ASB). The church has had “ongoing issues with ASB”.
(Image: Public) Vicar Rev Vivien Masters , had spoken to Breightmet councillor Adele Warren about ongoing ASB problems hours before the fire occurred. Cllr Warren said: “St James is an important part of our community and damage and ASB hurts the church and the whole community. “The garage is part of the old vicarage of St James which was demolished several decades ago and has unfortunately been subject to intermittent issues with ASB.
“I had been contacted by Vicar Vivien Masters and visited earlier that day before the recent fire to discuss the ongoing issues that they have been suffering and possible solutions. “I will continue to support the church moving forward with their future plans which will hopefully result in a really positive change moving for the area.” Cllr Sean Fielding , who represents Breightmet, said: "This kind of mindless vandalism is disappointing.
"St James' is more than just a church, providing invaluable su.
