Security patrols stepped up at Huddersfield cemeteries after attacks

Jul 14 2009 Huddersfield Daily Examiner

COUNCIL chiefs have stepped up security patrols at Huddersfield cemeteries in the wake of a spate of disturbing vandal attacks.

Extra after-dark checks will be made at Almondbury and Lockwood graveyards to curb incidents that have brought misery to grieving families.

Neighbourhood police have also pledged to increase their patrols in the affected areas.

It follows at least four reported incidents in the past three weeks.

Clr Molly Walton, Kirklees Council’s cabinet member for regeneration, environment and transport, is responsible for cemeteries.

She said: “We already have an early morning patrol and a dusk patrol for security purposes, but it was felt that it was necessary to have an unannounced one after dark as well.

“The thing is people want access to cemeteries, so we have to strike a balance between security and freedom to go in an out.

“Even if everything was fenced off, vandals would still get in if they were determined enough.

“It’s all expense, extra money, and every penny we spend on securing a place is money taken from spending on renovation and repairs.

“But we want to do all we can.”

As reported yesterday, mementoes were stolen from the grave of grandfather Jeffrey Gill in Almondbury on July 4.

That followed the discovery by Jeffrey Brook that flowers had been stolen from the grave of his wife Catherine at the same cemetery.