A church in Nottinghamshire has become the target of 'vandalism and intimidation' leading to concerns for safety.
The minister at Cotgrave Methodist Church, in Bingham Road, said it has been welcoming young people for 12 years through a number of groups.
Some are Christian-based sessions while others are simply for fun and making friends.
But at the end of last year, trouble began among some of the local youngsters when a window was broken, and there were people climbing onto the church's roof.
Reverend Mark Roberts, said: "In January, the problems escalated and since new year, we have had 11 windows smashed and paint and car wax has been thrown at the church.
"There has also been threats made to some of our youth workers which is what triggered the social media post."
On Thursday, January 30, Rev Roberts posted to the church's Facebook page about a number of incidents from the previous night that had lead to making the difficult decision of suspending some of the groups.
Within the post, it said: "Since the New Year the Methodist Church has become a target for a campaign of vandalism and intimidation which at times has felt like hate crime.
"We have been working with local police who have been very supportive. Unfortunately following a number of incidents on Wednesday night, we have had to reconsider the response we can expect in an emergency."
It added: "Sadly it is likely that we are going to have to suspend some of the youth groups until the situation is resolved. Group members and parents will be contacted as soon as a final decision has been made."
Following a successful refurbishment of the church last year, it was reopened in June with extra space that was intended for more community use.
Police are now trying to help the church look at its security measures to prevent further incidents.
Rev Roberts added: "The key concern is the safety of young people and volunteers.
"If we have a situation with threats being made, we have to take a step back to look at what we can do.
"The church is a big part of the community and I would guess every child has been through its doors at some point.
"It's devastating and tough to see the damage.
"Residents have been very supportive although shocked. It's been hard but we are determined to continue and the groups will return."
Nottinghamshire Live has contacted Nottinghamshire Police for comment.
