THE VICAR of Bromsgrove’s St John’s Church has praised the emergency services following an aggravated burglary at the vicarage on Wednesday.
It happened around 8.30am when a young man knocked at the door asking to speak to Rev Khan. When he was told the vicar was out, he forced his way in and, after attempting to steal items, fled.
The young man was apprehended by police and was found to have items on him, including two knives.
Rev Khan said: “Caroline was examined by paramedics and did not need to go to hospital.
“We were blessed by the speedy police response and good neighbours.
“Caroline is still bruised, sore and nervous whenever the doorbell rings.
“We would want to say that this incident is rare and that the young man came to us because it was the vicarage.”
He added the police and diocese had been brilliant and security improvements were being made to the vicarage.
“We both still feel called to Bromsgrove and we are not planning to move as a consequence of this incident.
“We would like to thank all those who have offered support.
“Although shaken by this we refuse to be defeated by this.”
He urged people to pray for the young man, adding he was grateful to all those whose love and care was there for them.
Police have appealed for any witnesses or anyone with any information to call them on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.