On Air Now

George Buswell

10:00pm - Midnight

Now Playing

The Beatles

Love Me Do (Single Version)

Heywood church closed after break-in causes major damage

Community left shaken as church halts worship and outreach groups following break-in

Trinity Methodist Church in Heywood has closed temporarily after a burglary caused significant damage to parts of the building, including the vestry.

The church confirmed that both worship services and community group sessions are suspended until further notice.

Paul Goulden, a member of the church’s leadership, said they were still assessing the damage. While clearing the mess, volunteers found a handwritten school project titled ‘The beginning of Methodism in Heywood’ by Nina Wirchenko. Goulden said it was “a lovely piece of work” and has asked anyone who knows her to get in touch so the item can be returned.

The break-in has drawn widespread anger from residents. Dozens of locals commented online, describing the burglary as “disgraceful”, “diabolical” and “shocking”. One user wrote: “That’s low, breaking into and ruining a place of worship and a community space.”

Others expressed sadness and concern for the wider community. “What is this town coming to?” asked one resident. “They’ll never have any luck in their lives,” said another. Some offered support and prayers, with a message from St Luke’s Church saying: “Hope you’re soon back up and running.”

Goulden added that, while nobody was harmed, the scene was a mess. He noted there may be forensic evidence at the scene that could help police.

Greater Manchester Police have not yet released a statement on the incident. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact GMP.

Donate to Roch Valley Radio

 

Do you have a story for us? Want to tell us about something happening in our Borough?

Let us know by emailing newsdesk@rochvalleyradio.com

All contact will be treated in confidence.

More from Local News

Comments

Add a comment

Log in to the club or enter your details below.

Donate to Roch Valley Radio

 

Recently Played

Newsletter

Your subscription could not be saved. Please try again.
Your subscription has been successful.

Subscribe to our newsletter and stay updated.

   

Coming up next On Air

  • George Buswell

    10:00pm - Midnight

  • After Hours

    Midnight - 2:00am

    For the night owls, night workers and everyone still going while the rest of the town sleeps. Music, chat and company after dark.

  • Wide Awake Club

    2:00am - 5:00am

    For those who find themselves awake at 3am more often than they’d like. Calm music, understanding voices and quiet company.

  • Up Before the Alarm

    5:00am - 7:00am

    for early starters, commuters and anyone already on their second brew. Livelier music and new voices warming things up before breakfast.

  • Wednesday Breakfast

    7:00am - 10:00am

    getting you out of bed and to work and school with great music and headlines.

  • Business Spotlight

    10:00am - 11:00am

    Join Geoff Kirkman on The Business Spotlight show on Roch Valley Radio.