Thieves target Briercliffe graves: police appeal

Church Deacon Michael Green and PCSO Rachel Lonsdale. (s)

Police are appealing for information after the York flags were taken from the top of seven grave vaults at Haggate Baptist Church between 4pm on Bank Holiday Monday, August 26th and noon on Wednesday.

PCSO Rachel Lonsdale said: “This is a despicable crime which also sadly happened in August last year.

“The flags are what lay on the top of the vault and will be recognisable as they will have remains of the green decorative stones on, they vary in size but generally about 3ft by 2ft.

“There were also 12 flags left stacked at the scene which we believe the offenders may have also attempted to steal.

“The offenders would likely have needed a vehicle so I would appeal to anybody that saw a vehicle or anyone in the area acting suspiciously to contact police.”

Anyone with information should contact PCSO Lonsdale on 101 quoting log reference 0598 28/8.

Between July 31st and August last year, decorative stones were stolen from the top of 12 grave vaults and 20 York stone flags were taken from the top of the grave vault. The offenders have never been caught.

People with information can also contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at Crimestoppers-uk.org.