An artwork of "dazzling beauty" was vandalised just weeks before being given listed status by the government. The 1955 mural by Hungarian George Mayer-Marton of Christ on the cross dominates the interior of Holy Rosary RC Church in Oldham.
But intruders got into the empty building and slashed the mural at the beginning of this month after forcing the rear of the premises. The church, which has also been given Grade II listed status, has stood empty, and closed for good, for four years, its congregation now scattered.
However the Diocese of Salford has held talks with police and says security will be bolstered as it now has a responsibility to safeguard the work.
