Local elderly priest attacked during break-in at parish house

AN elderly priest was assaulted after he confronted a man and a woman who broke into the parish house in Ferrybank over the Bank Holiday weekend.

Retired parish priest Fr Jim Crotty was left shaken after he foiled the attempted robbery at the Presbytery House on the Ross Road at around 6.50pm on Friday.

A local Garda source told KilkennyNow.ie the male gained entry to the house via an upstairs window. He then ran downstairs to let his female accomplice in.

However, the pair were interrupted by Fr Crotty. A “scuffle” ensued, during which Fr Crotty’s glasses were damaged. However, local gardai said the priest did not suffer any serious injuries.

The pair fled the scene after the brief confrontation empty handed. Gardai confirmed there is no record of any money or property stolen.

Anyone with information regarding the attempted break-in is urged to contact Waterford Garda Station on 051 305 300.