A FATHER-of-four has hit out at "graveyard ghouls" who, he says, regularly steal treasured mementos left by the family on his stillborn daughter's grave.

Tracey Leanne Jackson was buried in Newton Cemetery in October last year and dad Stephen visits the grave at least once a week.

But he now he says the tragic tot's last resting place has become a regular target for sick thieves who have already stolen teddy bears, flowers and other precious keepsakes.

Stephen, from Alder Street, Newton-le-Willows, told the Star: "They are striking more and more regularly now and whenever we come to visit the grave, something else has disappeared. I can only assume that these people are sick in the head to commit such a crime.

"The latest things to go are a white love heart teddy bear which I put down, a duck teddy bear, and a basket of artifical flowers which my mum made up herself. It is hard enough for us to cope with the fact that she died without having to deal with this added upset."

And he added: "It is not just Leanne's grave - they are stealing flowers and things from all over the cemetery."

A spokesman for Newton Cemetery said: "Unfortunately, this wanton theft and vandalism in cemeteries is becoming a growing problem and it is not possible to keep a 24-hour watch on the grounds. However, we are looking into increasing the security in and around the cemetery."

STEPHEN is offering a reward of £150 to anyone with information on the thefts and people can write to him at his home, 131 Alder Street, Newton-le-Willows or contact Rachel Herrity at the Star on (01744) 611861.

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