WATCH: 'Disrespectful' teens 'smash-up' former Sikh temple in Clarence Place, Gravesend

The group of teenagers have been filmed seemingly trashing the derelict site in Clarence Place by smashing plates and throwing around long pieces of wood or metal.

A still taken from the video

The video, which was shared on Snapchat and later on Facebook, has been watched almost 90,000 times since it was uploaded yesterday (June 22).

More than 1,000 people have commented on social media, many branding the teenagers, who appear to be mainly boys, as “disrespectful” and “idiots”.

Former Gravesham councillor Tanmanjeet Singh Dhesi said in a statement: "Vandalism, even of a building that has been empty for about five years, is highly disrespectful and disappointing to say the least.

Tanmanjeet Singh Dhesi

"We together have all done a great deal in ‪Gravesham‬ over the years to build a united and integrated community.

"Please don't let the foolishness of a few children spoil that wonderful achievement."

Kent Police were called to the site just after midnight and have now identified a number of those involved in the clips.

This shot appears to show a youth throwing around poles

A spokesman said: “Kent Police was to a report of criminal damage at a derelict property in Clarence Place, Gravesend. 

"Officers are continuing to make enquiries into their investigation of this incident. At the present time there is nothing to suggest this was a hate crime." 

The former temple in Clarence Place

The spokesman added: "We do not underestimate the impact that a crime of this nature may have on a community and would like to reassure the public we are taking the report very seriously.

"We are working closely with the Guru Nanak Darbar Gurdwara and other community partners in establishing the circumstances of this incident. The investigation is currently ongoing."

What do you think about this? Email fiona.simpson@london.newsquest.co.uk