MINDLESS vandals have daubed graffiti on the walls of the historic Dunfermline Abbey.

Worshippers attending at the church on Sunday morning were greeted with the extensive vandalism which has been plastered on the south side of the church.

A post on the Abbey Church of Dunfermline's Facebook page said the damage was caused at around 10pm on Saturday evening.

"We are grateful to the members of the public who saw the incident happening, took photos, and contacted the police. Those involved were apprehended by the police and the matter now lies with them," it stated.

"Tomorrow, we will begin to look at how the damage can be repaired and consider what options need to be taken to protect the site more to prevent further vandalism.

"This section of Dunfermline Abbey is in the care of the Church of Scotland, and any cost involved beyond an insurance claim would normally fall to the congregation of 450+ members, who are solely responsible for the care and upkeep of the 200 year old church.

"We are doing our best to protect a much loved building for all in our current and future community. In recent months we have been very grateful to our partners on the site (Historic Environment Scotland and Fife Council) who have offered support in smaller incidents of vandalism."