A 39-year-old man has been charged after a wooden crucifix was set alight and around forty headstones were vandalised overnight at St Conval’s Cemetery in Barrhead, East Renfrewshire, Scotland. The attack has caused widespread concern and condemnation across the local community.
The vandalism, believed to have occurred in the early hours of Saturday, saw a five‑metre‑high crucifix burned and numerous gravestones demolished or damaged.
The Diocese of Paisley has described the incident as senseless and violent.
In a statement, the Bishop of Paisley, Bishop John Keenan, said: “I am saddened and dismayed by this senseless vandalism and the destructive violence behind it. My thoughts and prayers are with the families who have had headstones attacked, as well as with the whole community of relatives and friends who visit St Conval’s and care for the graves of their loved ones so tenderly.”
The bishop added: “My gratitude goes to the St Conval’s staff who maintain the grounds and administer the cemetery, and who now face the distressing task of repairing and making safe damaged graves while comforting distraught families.”
A spokesperson for the Diocese of Paisley said: “Anyone wishing to contact the cemetery staff can do so on 0141 881 1058 or via <a>stconvalscemetery@rcdop.org.uk</a>.”
Police Scotland confirmed receiving a report at 8.50am on Sunday, 29 June 2025, and launched an investigation into the cemetery attack. Officers have appealed for public assistance, urging anyone with information to come forward by contacting police on 101, quoting reference number 1089 of 29 June.
In recent years, churches and cemeteries across Scotland have been targets for vandalism and theft. In July 2024, headstones were smashed at Tomnahurich Cemetery in Inverness, prompting a police investigation. In May 2025, Renton Trinity Church in Dumbartonshire was broken into and robbed.
The suspect is due to appear before Paisley Sheriff Court on Monday.
(Image: Diocese of Paisley)
