Appeal after vandals attack ancient abbey

The abbey, which helped inspire Bram Stoker’s Dracula with its gothic splendour, was targeted by vandals, who caused damage to the main sign and some stonework at the abbey with the name ‘Jacob’ being inscribed into the brickwork.

The culprits also broke into the site and dug up five small areas of the grounds of the abbey which is set on a headland high over the port.

Last night North Yorkshire Police appealed for anyone with information about the vandalism, which happened over the weekend of March 2-3 to come forward.

Police are keen to speak to anyone who can help identify those responsible, in particular, anyone who uses the name Jacob, or anyone who saw any suspicious activities at the abbey over the weekend.

PC Melanie Smith, of Whitby Safer Neighbourhood Team, 
said: “Whitby Abbey is a historic property and it is beyond 
comprehension what anyone 
has to gain by damaging our heritage.

“Nor is it acceptable for anyone to enter the property and dig up the grounds for whatever purpose.

“Anyone who has any information is urged to contact the police without delay.”

Anyone with information is asked to call North Yorkshire Police on 101 or people can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.