Families devastated by crematorium vandalism (From Asian Image)

Families devastated by crematorium vandalism

9:30am Monday 6th July 2009 in

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POLICE and council chiefs are working to step up security at a crematorium following a wave of attacks by yobs.

CCTV coverage has been upgraded and security patrols increased at Overdale Crematorium in Heaton.

But council bosses say the vandals are still causing problems. Civic officials are now working with police to combat the attacks.

Families have been left heartbroken by the vandalism against memorials to their loved ones.

Jaya Mahesh Vishram, aged 27, of Great Lever, has seen her brother’s memorial attacked twice.

Most recently, yobs smashed a vase and scattered flowers left in tribute.

Mrs Vishram said: “My family is devastated by it and we want action. Enough is enough.

“My brother Govind, died in his sleep in October when he was 30. He was cremated and we have a memorial stone in a beautiful area of Overdale which has its own waterfall.

“A few weeks ago, the flowers were ripped up. Then the vase was smashed on Thursday.”

She added: “Yobs drink there. We need more cameras or security guards.”

And last week, Tracy Hurst, of Withins Close, Breightmet, discovered yobs had scattered flowers that were placed on a stone in memory of her son, Bradley Pover.

She said about nine other memorials were also targeted.

Another woman, who has asked to remain anonymous, added: “I visited last Sunday and was shocked by what I saw — bouquets of flowers kicked around everywhere and a wreath spelling out ‘dad’ damaged.”

A Bolton Council spokesman said: “We are experiencing some problems with vandalism and anti-social behaviour, particularly at evenings and weekends and we are working closely with the police and police community support officers to address this.

“We recently upgraded the CCTV cameras, which now capture more of the crematorium and grounds, and we have also taken other anti-vandal measures.

“Cameras are monitored by the council security team, who also carry out regular patrols.

“We appeal to residents and regular visitors to report incidents to police on 0161 856 5608.”

Police confirmed they were working with council officials to end the problems.