A 'heritage crime' has been committed after vandals struck at The Priory Church of Saint Mary and Saint Hardulph, Breedon on the Hill.

The church is well-known to people in North West Leicestershire as it can be seen for miles due to its position high above the village.

But the region's rural policing team reported on Friday that damage had been caused to the church overnight between last Monday and Tuesday.

Last month, Ashby Nub News reported that lead had been stolen from nearby Staunton Harold Church with damage caused to the building Thieves take lead from Staunton Harold Church

Pc Emma Holmes revealed the Breedon Church incident on the North West Leicestershire Police Facebook page - and that said that patrols in the area could be increased in the area.

She posted: "It is with regret that I report that damage has been caused to The Priory Church of Saint Mary and Saint Hardulph, Breedon on the Hill, known for its Saxon carvings that date from the 8th-10th centuries.

"This was reported to have occurred overnight Monday 11/5 into Tuesday 12/5 and part of the damage caused involved a previously damaged area.

"This type of act is classed as a Heritage Crime.

"Historic England define heritage crime as, 'Any offence which harms the value of England's heritage assets and their settings to this and future generations.'

"We are fully aware that this type of crime can have a significant impact on the local community and although we will look to increase patrols within the area where possible, we would like persons who visit the area to remain vigilant.

'And if you note any suspicious activity around you, please don't hesitate to report this to us to help protect our heritage so that we can leave it for the next generations in as good or even better condition."