by Lynn Cox

A vandal smashed up a church noticeboard and figure of Christ because he said he thought it would be fun.

Samuel Genrey, 20, was returning from a night out in Rochester when he targeted St Augustine's Church in Gillingham.

He was caught after cutting himself while carrying out the vandalism with a brick and was traced by police through his DNA.

Genrey, of Audley Avenue, Gillingham, confessed to officers he was very drunk and told them he "thought it would be fun".

The trainee carpet fitter said he now realised it was not a funny thing to do at all.

He admitted criminal damage at the Rock Avenue church. Medway magistrates heard the damage would cost almost £2,500 to repair.

Genrey, who was unrepresented, said: "I regret it. I can't believe I personally done it. It was disrespectful. It was stupidity on my part and I have not been drinking since."

Magistrates gave Genrey an 18-month conditional discharge, ordered he pay for the repairs and £2,480 compensation as well as £85 court costs.

However, as he is only earning a small amount of money, Genrey has been ordered to pay the compensation at £10 per week.

In total, it will take him four years and seven months to repay the church.

The Rev Jonathan Jennings, of St Augustine's, said: "The attack on our noticeboard was a traumatic experience for the church community, especially as it was given in memory of former members of our congregation.

"It has been hard for us all to come to terms with this incident, but we're hoping this court appearance draws a line under things and we can move on."

Magistrate Angela Howe told Genrey: "We've taken into consideration your are ashamed and contrite about this incident. We hope we don't see you here again."