POLICE are investigating an attack on the grave of a North-East father.

Jeff Sture's tombstone in Newton Aycliffe Cemetery, County Durham, was singled out in a malicious act believed to be aimed at other members of his family.

His picture was chipped away from the engraved tablet, and figures of angels at the top corners were broken.

The 32-year-old died suddenly on Boxing Day 1998, but the cause was never established and an inquest recorded an open verdict.

He was buried near the mother of his two-year-old daughter, Amy, Laurena Black, 29, who was killed in a 100mph car crash in 1995.

Ms Black, known as Rena, had another daughter, Lyndsey.

A friend of Mr Sture's said: "He was a lovely man and his death was a tragedy. He was bringing up Amy when he died.

"The whole thing is terrible."

The £1,200 memorial was attacked after the cemetery closed at 4.30pm on Thursday and before it reopened on Friday.

Police have appealed for witnesses.

Inspector Gordon Scott, of Newton Aycliffe police, said last night: "This is a horrific incident of criminal damage that will have upset a lot of people.

"If whoever did this has any decency, they will realise that this is not just about Mr Sture's family, but they have upset many people who have relatives buried in that graveyard.

"Fortunately, no other graves were damaged."

Anyone with information has been asked to call police on (01325) 314401.