Cemetery attacked as thieves ransack containers of tools and damage new fence
Horden Parish Council has appealed for anyone with information about who is responsible for the attack on Thorpe Road Cemetery last night to contact police.
The items are valued in excess of £3,000, not including the damage to a £5,000 new container and new boundary and compound palisade fencing.
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Hide AdIt comes as the council was nearing the end of a project to improve the site, including better access for vehicles and for those visiting on foot and 1,500 additional burial spaces, after work started last June.
A spokesman said: "We are devastated to report an extensive break-in at Thorpe Road Cemetery last night.
"The new boundary and compound fencing has been cut and containers cut into and all our tools and equipment stolen.
"Items included strimmers, blowers, chain saw, hedge trimmers, drills, mostly Stihl branded.
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Hide Ad"This comes as a major blow to the council as we are coming to the end of a £500,000 cemetery extension and refurbishment project.
"This should be a time to appreciate the hard work, for what has been a major project for the council and Horden Cemetery.
"We would appreciate any information, this can either reported to us or the police in confidence.
"This is truly devastating after the work and effort we have put into the cemetery extension project."
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Hide AdItem taken are two Stihl strimmers and harness; a Stihl strimmer and harness; two Stihl back mounted blowers; a Dewalt drill pack; a Stihl chainsaw; a socket set and a Stihl hedge trimmer.
Durham Constabulary's non-emergency number can be called via 101 or Crimestoppers can be called on anonymously on 0800 555 111.