HUDDERSFIELD artist Ashley Jackson’s Holmfirth shop has been vandalised.

The gallery, in the centre of Holmfirth, was targeted by yobs in the early hours of Saturday morning after they smashed through two windows to ruin one of Ashley’s most treasured and sentimental paintings.

Ashley said: “The original painted glass window which was made by old traditional glass gilding over 30 years ago was protected by the new window so whoever did this must’ve had a real good go to even get to the traditional painting as it was very well protected.

“They have deliberately gone through two windows to smash it.

“It is frustrating and I am very sad about the whole incident. Nothing has been stolen, nobody has gained a thing.

“It is pure vandalism, and a piece of work that is 33 years old has been destroyed.”

The incident happened at around 4am on Saturday morning.

There were also reports of other premises nearby being attacked, including Longley’s cafe.

Police have been concerned about anti-social behaviour in the village for some time.

Just two weeks ago, police raided the Shoulder of Mutton pub after complaints of under-age drinking.

Ashley added: “It is very said that the level of anti-social behaviour and crime has got to this level in society.

“It is a sign of the times. There is clearly a lack of discipline and respect in the community and this needs to be addressed.”

It is hoped CCTV from cameras in the Holmfirth centre will catch the vandals.

The ever-popular Holmfirth artist is world-renowned for his paintings of lonely and windswept moors above Huddersfield, massively boosting the area’s profile.

But Ashley has also raised huge amounts for charities – especially the Prince’s Trust – which he has been involved in for 30 years. The Trust helps people start businesses.

What’s more, his Holmfirth gallery receives around 40 letters from people each week asking for help with charities and good causes.

The window has now been boarded up until a new one is reinforced. Ashley is also looking into putting cameras around the building.

“In the 37 years I have been at the shop, this has never happened and it is extremely disappointing, so I will do all I can to ensure this doesn’t happen again.”