Grieving family’s heartbreak over grave theft

Sheila Haines, of Blakehurst Way, said she was “heartbroken” over the mindless theft of three ornamental dogs and a model dragonfly, all left in loving tribute by family members to her late husband, Derek.

Sixty-year-old Sheila, visits the site of her husband’s grave every Saturday and was reduced to tears by the thefts.

She said: “It’s sickening.

“I go there every weekend to polish Derek’s headstone. We loved him so much, and to have someone do this, it’s just so distressing.

“It’s something that might be trivial to some people, but it’s totally heartbreaking for all our family.”

The ornaments had been placed in front of Derek’s headstone by his grandchildren and other family members, following his death in 2008.

Two months ago, Sheila and other relatives began to notice that the ornaments were going missing.

However, the theft escalated at the end of last month, with three of the models disappearing over a two-week period.

“Shortly after Derek’s death, my grandson bought a small concrete statue of a Labrador, with a little bell on, and put it on my husband’s headstone.

“Later, Derek’s great-grand-daughter put a dragonfly on a pole, next to his grave.

“Now they’re all gone.”

Police are investigating the thefts and are appealing for anybody with any information to come forward.

PC Colin Taylor said: “This is a despicable act.

“The ornaments are of little financial worth, but are of enormous sentimental value to this lady and her family.

“If anyone has any information about the theft, please call 0845 60 70 999 quoting serial 750 of 07/10.”