Police have started patrolling a County Durham cemetery after numerous graves were destroyed and ornaments stolen - with families said to be 'furious' and 'disgusted' at the behaviour of people who are targeting the grave areas. 

Over the last six weeks, police have been investigating the vandalism at Pelton Cemetery, in Chester-le-Street, and Durham County Council's neighbourhood wardens have increased patrols in the area.

However, families are said to be 'disgusted' and 'appalled' at the vandalism that has happened there - and have called for more to be done about the damage to graves that belong to their loved ones. 

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One person, who doesn't wish to be named, told The Northern Echo that they have spotted young people kicking graves and taking precious ornaments on more than one occasion while they have been there.

They said: "It's disgusting that people can act in this way. It's like nothing is sacred anymore. I'm appalled that people can have such little respect, and hope that something can be done about this damage."  

Authorities are now appealing for people with information to come forward to help catch those responsible for damaging and knocking over the memorials. 

The council is assessing the extent of the damage and its bereavement services team is in the process of contacting the affected families.

Work is now underway temporarily reinstating and securing the headstones while conversations are ongoing with relatives of people buried in the cemetery.

The council is also encouraging members of the public to report any information they may have to the police.

Councillor Mark Wilkes, Durham County Council’s cabinet member for neighbourhoods and climate change, said: “This is a devastating incident affecting a number of families and we are appalled that anyone would seek to cause damage to headstones.

“We are supporting the families that have been affected and are in the process of contacting them about the reinstatement of the headstones.

"I would encourage anyone who has information about this incident to contact the police to help them identify who is responsible.”

Lee Morris, the neighbourhood inspector at Durham Constabulary, said: “We received a report of damage to several headstones from a member of the public in Cemetery House, Pelton Lane, on November 28. Enquiries are ongoing.

"Our Neighbourhood Wardens have continued with the increased patrols in Pelton Cemetery after receiving reports of damage to gravestones and theft of ornaments.

"Anyone that witnesses such behaviour is asked to report it to the police on 101 or 999 as and when incidents are happening.

"If you have any information on who is responsible for this but want to remain anonymous, please call crime stoppers on 0800555111."

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