2 weeks Ago
A “rubbish” fire broke out in a church garage on Wednesday in what has been labelled as “mindless vandalism”. Emergency services attended the fire at St James Church on Roscow Avenue in Breightmet on Wednesday at around 5.20pm.
One fire engine was called and the crews extinguished the blaze with a hose reel and remained in attendance for 30 minutes. It is understood that the fire was set in the church’s garage and that it was an act of “damage and anti-social behaviour” (ASB). The church has had “ongoing issues with ASB”.
(Image: Public) Vicar Rev Vivien Masters , had spoken to Breightmet councillor Adele Warren about ongoing ASB problems hours before the fire occurred. Cllr Warren said: “St James is an important part of our community and damage and ASB hurts the church and the whole community. “The garage is part of the old vicarage of St James which was demolished several decades ago and has unfortunately been subject to intermittent issues with ASB.
“I had been contacted by Vicar Vivien Masters and visited earlier that day before the recent fire to discuss the ongoing issues that they have been suffering and possible solutions. “I will continue to support the church moving forward with their future plans which will hopefully result in a really positive change moving for the area.” Cllr Sean Fielding , who represents Breightmet, said: "This kind of mindless vandalism is disappointing.
"St James' is more than just a church, providing invaluable support to the wider community beyond just its congregation. “Any damage to the church or its facilities is damage to the ability of the committed people at St James to continue the great work they do for the people of Breightmet." A spokesperson for Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service said: “Shortly after 5.
20pm on Wednesday, October 23, one fire engine from Bolton North Community Fire Station was called to attend a fire involving a small quantity of rubbish on Roscow Avenue, Bolton. “Our crew arrived quickly and used one hose reel to extinguish the fire. “Firefighters made the area safe before departing after approximately 30 minutes at the scene.
” If you have any information about the fire contact police on 101 or call the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111..
