Crucifix set alight and headstones demolished in ‘senseless’ cemetery attack

A wooden crucifix has been set alight and some 40 headstones attacked at an East Renfrewshire cemetery, in what a bishop has condemned as “senseless vandalism”.

The incident at St Conval’s Cemetery on Glasgow Road, Barrhead, is understood to have happened in the early hours of June 29.

The Diocese of Paisley reported that after entering the cemetery grounds those responsible attacked around 40 headstones, with some being “demolished”.

A five-metre-high wooden crucifix was also set on fire.

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 stconvalscemeteryrcdop.org.uk.”

A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “Around 8.50am on Sunday, 29 June, 2025, we received a report of vandalism at a cemetery in Glasgow Road, Hurlet, Barrhead.

“Inquiries are at an early stage.

“Anyone with any information is asked to contact police on 101, quoting reference number 1089 of 29 June.”