City bosses hit out at 'senseless' damage caused to Sunderland cemetery
Newly-planted trees have been torn down by vandals in a Sunderland cemetery.
Sunderland City Council has hit out at whoever is behind the damage caused in Southwick Cemetery.
A council spokesperson said: “Following the recent planting of new saplings in Southwick cemetery, we are shocked and saddened to discover that these saplings have been subject to senseless, wilful damage.
“Southwick Cemetery is not only a peaceful sanctuary and important part of our community, it is a place of meaning and reflection for so many local people.
"The needless actions of those responsible for this damage are completely unacceptable, and disrespectful to members of our community and those loved ones who are no longer with us.
“Patrols will continue to be carried out by police and antisocial behaviour officers, and we ask the public to be extra-vigilant.”
They added enforcement powers will be used to deal with those responsible.
Anyone with information is asked to call (0191) 520 5550, police 101 or report online via http://orlo.uk/OGLtk.