A Gloucester city councillor has voiced her shock and anger after she discovered extensive vandalism to the historic 9th century St Oswald's Priory, which stands in the shadow of Gloucester Cathedral.

Lim Dem councillor Dr Rebecca Trimnell, who represents the Westgate ward that includes St Oswald's, said: "Vandals have attacked the Priory and covered the monument in graffiti."

"Foul language and tags have been sprayed over the Priory in an overnight attack.

"I am absolutely upset and angry - filled with disbelief to see the damage that has been done overnight by someone with spray paint.

"The priory has been covered in graffiti. It is really quite upsetting to see this beautiful monument, which is over 1,000 year old, being attacked in this way - and shows a complete lack of respect.

"This is a stark reminder the city is facing at the moment and more needs to be done.

"The lights need to be put back on and there needs to be more respect for this place otherwise it is just going to rack and ruin."

The councillor has reported the vandalism to the city council and will also be reporting it to Gloucestershire Police.

Built by Queen Aethelflaed, daughter of Alfred the Great in about 880AD, the remains of the north-side of the Priory are still standing tall more than 1,100 years later.

It is not the first time the Priory has been subjected to vandalism and Councillor Trimnell first highlighted the problem there earlier this year.