A place of worship in Keighley has been forced to increase levels of security following a spate of vandalism.

The Salvation Army Citadel, in High Street, is having to beef up its security after vandals left a trail of destruction which will take several thousands of pounds to put right.

The organisation has applied for planning permission to erect an 8ft high steel palisade fence at the rear of the building in a bid to deter future attacks.

If it receives planning permission the fence will replace the current wooden version and will effectively seal off the rear of the building.

The Salvation Army hopes this will stop people using it as a thoroughfare between High Street and Damside.

And it is appealing for any donations to help cover the cost of erecting the new fence.

Capt Alison Gardner said: "While we've been on holiday someone has pulled all the fall pipes out and there is sewage water and waste at the back of the building.

"Someone has smashed our fence to pieces to get into the building, and has broken two of the windows at the back of the hall. We had a security camera up but that has been ripped out as well.

"We have spent a lot of money on security already, and we can't afford to keep on repairing the damage.

"It's been an absolute nightmare and will cost thousands of pounds to repair, which will have to come from the money we use to provide our services."

Capt Kenny Gardner added: "We had been saving money towards the new fence, which will cost around £4,000, but it is going to be a struggle as we are constantly paying out for repairs.

"We get a lot of help from churches and other groups, but it is annoying when we are trying to do something for the community and we are getting all this hassle."

Anyone who would like to donate money to the Salvation Army can contact the citadel on 01535 603494.