Despairing worshippers, who had a direct view of the heavens after vandals ripped two holes in their church roof, have had their prayers answered.

Members of Bankfoot National Spiritualist Church in Bradford were left reeling in shock and facing a hefty repair bill after the break-in a few months ago.

Church caretaker Mike Welsh said the attempted break-in followed a previous spate of break-ins at the building in Bowling Old Lane, the one before had been in January.

On that occasion thieves had broken in and stolen the office computer, printer, collection money and raffle prizes for a festive draw.

After the last trouble, church members bricked up the windows, padlocked the doors, fitted sensor lights and set up a neighbourhood watch.

Mr Welsh, who discovered the damage, said they had put up with windows being smashed, thefts, paint thrown, fly-tipping and children throwing stones but when the trouble eased after the last attack in January they had thought their problems were over.

“We thought things had settled down and we were over it, but obviously we were not. It was so frustrating.”

But the story telling of their plight in the Telegraph & Argus caught the eye of Bradford-based security company Zephyr who got in touch.

Zephyr Security Solutions has installed a security system for free and the premises will now be fully monitored.

“Everything will be up and running in the next couple of days so we’re very grateful.”

The church is also working hard to raise £40,000 for new plumbing, toilets, re-wiring and other works.

Mr Welsh said: “We’re trying our hardest to raise funds to bring the church into the 21st century.

“Vandals and thieves aren’t making it easy but hopefully the New Year and the new security system will bring us better luck.”

e-mail: kathie.griffiths@telegraphandargus.co.uk