VANDALS have attacked graves in a city’s main cemetery.

Headstones were damaged and items moved or stolen from plots at Bishopwearmouth Cemetery in Chester Road, Sunderland.

Police are stepping up patrols in response to the spate of incidents over the past few months.

Neighbourhood Inspector Lisa Laverick said: "This sort of mindless vandalism is completely unacceptable and will not be tolerated.

"Headstones being damaged and items stolen from graves causes a huge amount of upset and distress to the families whose loved ones' graves has been affected.

"We will increase our patrols throughout the grounds to help prevent any further incidents and to provide a high visibility police presence to offer reassurance to members of the public visiting the cemetery.

To report information to Northumbria Police ring 101, extension 69191, quoting reference 0888 240315, or call Crimestoppers anonymously 0800 555 111.