A Manchester synagogue is to bolster security after a break-in.
Congregants of the Shaarei Mordechai synagogue in Prestwich, which was built just a year and a half ago, came to morning prayers last Friday to discover its ornate wooden front doors had been prised apart and damaged because security bolts had been ripped off. No damage was reported inside the building.
Inspector Mark Kenny said the incident was being treated as criminal damage, but wanted to reassure the community.
"Officers attended the incident. At this stage no arrests have been made, or will be until there has been further investigation," he said.
The Community Security Trust confirmed it had been made aware of the break-in.
A spokesperson said: "We will be assisting the shul in enhancing its security procedures."
A committee member of the strictly Orthodox synagogue said repairs to the doors were carried out straight away.
"The synagogue is already more secure, but we welcome the assistance from the CST," he said.