COUNCIL and church leaders have blasted arsonists who wrecked a nativity crib.

The thugs struck early on Monday morning, wrecking several figures - including the Baby Jesus, Mary and Joseph - which were housed in the model stable.

A wooden crib which had been made by pupils of Westhoughton High School was also destroyed in the blaze.

Other figures, worth a total of £1,000, were badly charred in the attack on the nativity scene which is funded by Westhoughton Town Council.

But council member, David Wilkinson, says the vandalism must not mean an end to the annual Christmas display in the Memorial Gardens, off Market Street. He added: "This is just sick. It shows how pathetic these people are to burn down a small wooden crib which brings so much joy to young children.

"There are a few figures left but some are just black and charred. The crib is just a pile of burnt timber.

"We will have to contact our insurers to discuss replacements but we won't let this be the end of the nativity."

Cllr Wilkinson intends to suggest a reward be put up for information which could catch the firestarters, if the culprits have not been caught before the next Town Council meeting. The Rev Simon Tatton-Brown, of St Bartholomew's Church, which stands opposite the nativity statues, told of his anger at the arson attack.

He added: "It is very sad that something which gives people pleasure and proclaims the Christian story has been wantonly destroyed.

"The nativity scene is all part of community celebrations that have gone on for many years. It's a valuable contribution to building up the community life of Westhoughton."

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.