A VICAR has appealed for help to find the vandals who attacked his church, and defaced the visitors' book.

Diocese officials have warned that vandalism of this type could lead to churches being kept locked through the day, or having to install expensive security measures.

St Patrick's Church, in Patrick Brompton, near Bedale, was targeted on Saturday between 9am and 12pm.

Pages were torn out of a bible and the book of remembrance, and lewd comments were written in the visitors' book.

The Reverend David Christie said: "I deeply regret this incident.

"We almost feel that it's damage done to the community, not just the church.

"This is somebody I feel is in great need of help.

"They need to be found before they damage anything else, but also before they hurt themselves."

John Carter, spokesman for the Ripon Diocese, said it was very sad when vandalism occurred.

"Our aim is to keep churches open as much as possible," he said. "They are a place for prayer, for contemplation, for quiet and for visitors.

"The initial reaction would be to lock the church and keep it closed during the day and it would be very sad if that was to happen.

"But for it to stay open, members of the congregation may have to man the church or other security measures may have to be put in place.

"We would appeal to the community to be alert."

Anyone who witnessed the attack, or who has information about who vandalised the church, is asked to call Richmond police on (01609) 789321.

In July, the United Reformed Church in Northallerton was also targeted by vandals. More than 40 missiles were thrown at the building, which is just off the High Street, and valuable Victorian stained glass was shattered.

The church has been attacked by vandals a number of times and in the past, bricks have been thrown while the congregation was at worship.