A PORT minister says he is 'heartbroken' after mindless youths smashed touching Christmas tributes in memory of loved ones.

Reverend William Boyle, of Port Glasgow New Parish Church in the town centre, had invited the whole community to hang a decoration on the church fence with a photograph or special message.

But he was dismayed when he visited the church to check on the grounds only to find hand-made baubles had been ripped down and smashed.

Mr Boyle said: "The baubles had been scattered all over the road, opposite the church as far as Ladbrokes and Greggs.

"They had been ripped off the fence and smashed against the front door and left lying in the church grounds.

"What is really heartbreaking is the baubles contained photographs and personal messages and even poems.

"It is hugely disrespectful.

"You accept there is vandalism but this is just the worst type, destroying something dedicated to loved ones.

"I had to get a brush and shovel and swept it all up."

Mr Boyle said he had to take down the display a week earlier than he had intended due to the damage.

He said: "I'm just glad that New Year was quiet this year as it would be hurtful for people to see."

The popular minister said the display had been so warmly received.

He said: "It looked brilliant with all the different colours and the glitter and someone even made a wooden angel and heart.

"The Boys' Brigade Anchor Boys hung up their own baubles dedicated to their gran and grandpas.

"I walk the town and there was very positive feedback from the community."

Vandalism and litter has been an ongoing problem for the church.

Mr Boyle said: "We have had beer bottles lying on church grounds and takeaway rubbish in among the gravestones.

"This is sacred ground.

"It is so disheartening when church grounds are used in any and every way."

Mr Boyle says local police and community wardens have been very supportive and he has reported the latest incident to community police.

He said: "We also looked at the church CCTV, which recorded four youths using the baubles as target practice.

"It's so disappointing.

"Since I became minister I have stressed that we are here for the whole community, whether people are religious or not.

"It is not just a building open for an hour on a Sunday and we hope to do even more this year."