Cruel vandals smash gravestones

HEARTLESS vandals who attacked gravestones in a Suffolk cemetery have been condemned by police and community leaders.

Two young boys seen in the area of Haverhill Cemetery at the time of the offence are now wanted for questioning by Suffolk police who condemned the incident as "despicable".

And Haverhill councillor Gerry Kiernan said: "I know how devastated some families are going to be after this, it defies belief.

"Gravestones are so important to families and these vandals have such a lack of respect. There have been problems in the past and I know residents living near the cemetery have been concerned.

"It is important to take every step and ensure this does not happen again and I only hope police will now increase patrols around the cemetery."

A police spokesman said: "This is a particularly despicable offence which will not be tolerated by the police.

"These mindless vandals caused about £500 financial damage and obviously the sentimental value is far greater."

Nine gravestones were cracked and scratched – prompting St Edmundsbury Borough Council to pledge to look at security at the Withersfield Road cemetery.

A spokeswoman for the council, which oversees cemeteries in the borough, said: "We can confirm we have had some graves knocked over and we have informed the police and will be advising families as soon as possible.

"Security at all cemeteries in the borough is reviewed regularly and we will now be talking to police to see if there is anything else we can do."

The incident took place sometime between 3.30pm on Thursday and 8am on Friday .

Police say they are keen to speak to two young boys, both between ten and 12 years old, seen in the area at about 6.30pm.

One was plump with a black BMX bike, short light brown hair and wearing a t-shirt with red writing on it. The second boy had fair hair and was wearing dark clothing.

Anyone with information should contact Pc James McNee at Haverhill Police Station on 01284 774100 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.