Man charged after crucifix 'torched' and gravestones damaged at Scots cemetery
A man has been arrested and charged after a wooden crucifix was set alight and 40 headstones damaged at an East Renfrewshire cemetery.
Police launched a probe following reports of vandalism at St Conval's Cemetery on Glasgow Road in Hurlet, Barrhead, in the early hours of Sunday morning.
The Diocese of Paisley reported that after entering the cemetery grounds "those responsible attacked around 40 headstones, with some being demolished".
Pictures also showed that a five-metre-high wooden crucifix was set on fire.
Officers have now confirmed that a 39-year-old man has been arrested and charged in connection with wilful fire-raising and vandalism.
He is due to appear at Paisley Sheriff Court on Monday.
A Police Scotland spokesperson said: "A 39-year-old man has been arrested and charged in connection with wilful fire-raising and vandalism at St Conval's Cemetery on Glasgow Road in Hurlet, Barrhead.
"Officers attended after receiving a report of the incident around 8.50am on Sunday, June 29, 2025.
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"The man is due to appear at Paisley Sheriff Court on Monday, 30 June, 2025. A report will be submitted to the Procurator Fiscal."
The Bishop of Paisley, Bishop John Keenan previously said: 'I am saddened and dismayed.
'My thoughts and prayers are with the families, 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.'
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