Police using CS spray have arrested a man in Waltham Abbey following an incident in which a 62-year-man suffered serious head and back injuries, several cars were damaged and thousands of pounds damage caused to the Abbey Church.

A stained glass window was smashed, along with plaster statues and the church organ, police said.

The incident started at 1.30pm when a man was assaulted in Highbridge Street, heading towards Waltham Cross. A police spokesman said several reports followed of a man wielding two hatchets or a small axe.

Police are also investigating reports of a minor assault.

A 47-year-old man was later arrested in the area of the Abbey Church.

The injured 62-year-old man has been taken to Chase Farm Hospital, Enfield. Police say his injuries are serious but not life-threatening.

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Published Friday, January 3, 2003