Appeal for information following theft of grave headstone in Lyme Regis

Officers are appealing for anyone with information to come forward after a headstone was stolen from a grave at a cemetery in Lyme Regis.

Dorset Police received a report at around 1.15pm on Thursday 26 July that the headstone had been taken from the cemetery off Charmouth Road.

The headstone bears the names ‘Austin Arthur William Speed’ and ‘Joyce Constance Speed’.

It is believed it was taken some time during the last six weeks.

Police Sergeant Andy Napper, of Bridport police, said: “This theft has understandably caused considerable distress to the victim and their family and we are making enquiries to establish who is responsible.

“I am appealing to anyone who has witnessed any suspicious activity at the cemetery in recent weeks or who has any information that can assist our investigation to please contact us.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk, via email 101@dorset.pnn.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55180118932. Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 or via www.crimestoppers-uk.org.