Man charged following incidents at churches in Winchester

Police have charged a man after two churches in Winchester were broken into and severe damage was caused.

Andrew Richardson, aged 18, of no fixed abode, has been charged with arson, burglary and criminal damage. He is due to appear at Basingstoke magistrates court today (Monday, December 24).

The charges come after St Peter's Church in Jewry Street, was broken into in the early hours of Sunday, December 23.

St Bartholomew's Church in King Alfred Place was also broken into sometime overnight between Saturday, December 22 and Sunday, December 23. A fire broke out and extensive damage was caused to the inside of the church.

The church has now had to be closed over the Christmas period while repairs are carried out.

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Notes to editors -

Representatives from the churches are willing to speak to the media. Please contact Nick Edmonds on 07841 517 518.