'Mindless' vandals break into Newtown family crypt
Police have launched an investigation after vandals caused damage to a church, and broke into the crypt of one of the town's most historic families.
In recent weeks vandals have targeted St Mary’s Church in Newtown in a number of incidents, including by setting a bin on fire, as well as smashing open the door to the Pryce-Jones' family crypt.
It is understood that these acts of vandalism are happening late at night and in a bid to try and combat the issue, Dyfed-Powys Police have increased their patrols in the area.
Councillor Val Howard, East ward town councillor expressed her concern for St Mary's Church buildings and gardens, which is the burial ground of Newtown's Robert Owen.
She described those responsible for the damage as "mindless".
She said: "Many visitors of our town go to see the church and gardens, to see them vandalised saddens me. This mindless act has taken place on such historic buildings and gardens."
Newtown-born Sir Pryce Pryce-Jones established the world's very first mail order company in the town, selling a range of flannel-based products to customers all over the world, including royalty and diplomats.
Sir Pryce-Jones, who was knighted by Queen Victoria and became an MP, grew the Pryce-Jones business internationally before it was sold in the 1930s to a Liverpool company.
Newtown PCSO Graham Jennings said: "We welcome any information that may help us with our lines of enquiry. This can be done via the phone by contacting us on 101, Crimestoppers or alternatively you can complete an online report form via our website: www.dyfed-powys.police.uk, following the steps provided.
"We appreciate your vigilance and assistance with this matter."
It comes just days after vandals targeted the town's special school Ysgol Cedewain for the second time in less than a month, by scrawling offensive graffiti in the playground.
