Castles, monasteries and stately homes that have survived battles, the Reformation and the elements are falling victim to a more modern adversary — drunken youths.

Vandals have caused hundreds of thousands of pounds’ worth of damage at historic buildings around Britain in more than 170 incidents during the past year.

Research by a conservation charity has shown that the vandalism problem is acute in areas where local authorities have targeted youngsters drinking in city centres. The Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings concludes in its journal, Cornerstone, that the crackdown has forced youths to move to more isolated sites.

Peter Gough, the National Trust's head of security, said the number of incidents had doubled in five years, while English Heritage said the attacks had become more severe. In the worst cases, properties could be closed to prevent further damage.

Sites that have been damaged include Thetford Priory in East Anglia, Conisbrough Castle. South Yorkshire, and Netley Abbey, Hampshire.

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