Vandalism and graffiti attack on historic Old High Church in Inverness with links to St Columba, the Battle of Culloden and the Highland regiments

A historic church in Inverness city centre has been hit by vandalism, vile graffiti and dumped rubbish.

A window was smashed and an obscene image spray-painted on a wall of the iconic Old High Church by the River Ness.

Litter has also been strewn on the lawn and bushes within the grounds of the category A listed, which has historic links to St Columba, the Battle of Culloden and the Highland regiments.

The Old High held its final regular service in January this year, ending centuries of worship.

Last year, the congregation voted 179-71 in favour of closing the city landmark and retaining St Stephen’s Church in Crown.

It has since been put up for sale at offers over £150,000.

Amid growing concern that the city’s oldest church, built mostly in the 18th century, will be lost as a community asset, the Friends of the Old High has set out a vision for its future use.

The group wants the church to be saved, preserved and developed as an affordable, not-for-profit venue for the city, locals and visitors.

Jean Slater, secretary of the Friends of the Old High, was appalled by the damage at the church.

“I’ve seen what has been done and it is a disgrace,” she said.

“It’s dreadful and people should have some respect with the litter they’re leaving in the graveyard and the mindless damage caused.”