Clergy Suffer Bat Damages in Church

Clergy are suffering stress because of the damage bats are causing in their churches, an MP claims.

Norfolk MP Christopher Fraser told the House of Commons that a campaign has started in his constituency to exempt churches from laws protecting bats.

Urging the government to support the campaigners, Mr Fraser said: "The campaign aims to highlight the impact of bats on the fabric and artefacts in churches.

"Activists seek support for measures to protect the churches from the ravages of the bats.

Many vicars and church wardens have told him they are not willing or able to cope with the mess they create in their historic buildings, he added.

"I hope that time will be made available by the Leader of the House to discuss this issue as it is causing stress, anger and frustration among clergy and custodians of churches across England."