POLICE are appealing for witnesses after a child's grave was damaged.

A grey ornament engraved with the words 'special son' has been smashed at West Auckland Road cemetery.

Police believe the incident occurred sometime during the last two weeks.

PC Downs, from Bishop Auckland response said: “This was an incredibly disrespectful act.

“We are determined to find out who did this and would encourage the public to provide information via 101 quoting crime reference number CRI00208077.”