LOCAL councillors have branded two targeted attacks on a Bradford church as “totally unacceptable” as police continue to investigate.

There were two incidents at the Life Church on Wapping Road, with the first being an instance of criminal damage, which targeted the Church’s function room, on Sunday.

There was another “security threat” last night, police added, and the Church was evacuated and searched, but nothing was found.

Both incidents are being treated as hate crimes by police.

Pakistani folk singer, Zeeshan Khan Rokhri, was due to perform at the venue last night, but the event had to be cancelled.

Councillor Rizwana Jamil, of the Bowling and Barkerend ward – which Life Church comes under – condemned the incidents.

“Life Church is a place of community, as well as a place of worship, and I encourage anyone who knows anything to please contact the police, so they can find out who is responsible and ensure the Church is once again a safe and inviting place for everybody,” she said.

“The facilities at Life Church are enjoyed by all communities. I’ve been to concerts and conferences there, it’s such a beautiful place and it’s an asset to the area.”

Ms Jamil’s fellow ward councillor, Hassan Khan, also commented.

“Life Church is not only a place of worship, but a place of community. The people there do a lot of activities with young and elderly people,” he said.

“When I’ve passed through I’ve seen it get very busy over the weekends. They communicate well with the community, and not only people from Bowling and Barkerend, but people from across the district visit often.

“I’m not sure exactly what’s happened, but any kind of attack is totally unacceptable.

“The police are investigating the matter, so hopefully they find the culprits.

“We shouldn’t have to deal with silly stuff like this. If anyone has any problems with an organisation or with an event taking place somewhere, they should talk to the management or to the relevant people.”

Detective Chief Inspector Andy Farrell, of Bradford District Crime Team, said earlier: “My officers are carrying out extensive enquiries to find the person responsible for these incidents. 

“I would appeal to the community if anyone knows anything about the criminal damage caused to come forward.”

Anyone with information is asked to call police on 101 or use the Live Chat options at www.westyorkshire.police.uk/contactus, quoting crime reference number 13220628216.

Information can be given anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.