Anger as flowers stolen from grave

UPSET . . . Derek Ashton with fresh flowers at his son’s grave

A FAMILY were horrified to find flowers left in loving memory of their son were stolen from his grave.

Popular Richard Ashton died at the age of 25 on July 11, 2003, after suffering a brain haemorrhage while playing football.

Relatives and friends leave a host of flowers at his grave in Royton Cemetery every year to mark the anniversary of his death.

But parents Irene and Derek, of Harewood Drive, Royton, were shocked to see one arrangement had been snatched. They suspect the impressive blooms may have been taken to give to a girlfriend as a gift.

Mrs Ashton said: “There were 13 lots of flowers but one of the arrangements at the front of the grave in clear paper with red hearts on it has been taken and the card put in another arrangement.

“It must have been done on Monday as that’s the only day I didn’t go. I just couldn’t believe it. It’s so upsetting. People after six years still remember him and go to the trouble of getting flowers and showing their affection and someone does that.”

The flowers were bought by life-long family friends who were upset when they were informed.

Richard was described as a lovely, happy, friendly young man with lots of friends, who was a keen footballer and the lead singer in a local band. He worked in PC support at the Royal Oldham Hospital.

Tributes poured in after the death of the former Crompton House School pupil with his parents receiving more than 200 messages of condolence. Mr and Mrs Ashton can see the grave from their bedroom window and visit the resting place regularly.

Councillor Mark Alcock, Cabinet member for environment and infrastructure, said: “I understand how upsetting this must clearly be to the family.

“While the value is perhaps not a lot in financial terms, the emotional distress that a heartless act such as this can cause is much greater.

“There is no evidence at present to suggest this is anything other than an isolated incident. However, our First Response Service has been informed and they will be keeping a close watch on Royton Cemetery.”

Report theft on 0161-770 6644 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.