Metal Bridge Cemetery, near Spennymoor, taped off after grave disturbed

Police were called to Metal Bridge Cemetery, near Spennymoor, in County Durham, on Saturday morning and said a headstone had also been damaged.

A forensic tent has been put up over several graves and the area has been cordoned off.

Shortly before midday on Monday, five police cars and a van were still at the scene while crime scene investigators continue their work.

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It is understood police officers were taking the names and contact details of anyone who approached the scene.

One man, who was walking his dog in the area, but does not wish to be identified, said: “There were about eight police vans in the area and it was taped off.

“I asked if we could go along and he said ‘no’.

“I asked what had happened and they said: ‘I’m sorry, I can’t tell you’.

“As we were leaving a PCSO came down as asked what our names were so we told him.

“I was alarmed to see that something like that had happened so close to where we go every day.

“I was amazed at such a heavy police presence, I couldn’t believe it.”

A nearby resident said: “Everyone is talking about it but no-one knows what has happened. 

“The police just keep saying they can’t tell us anything.”

Another added said: "There were seven police vans and two police cars at 3pm today for a damaged head stone - I think not."

Police confirmed an investigation was underway.

A spokesman for Durham Constabulary said: “Police were called to Metal Bridge Cemetery at 11.45am on Saturday following a report that grave had been disturbed and a headstone damaged.

“Investigations into the incident are underway and anyone with information in regard to the incident is asked to call officers on 101.”