Son’s grave desecrated

DEVASTATED . . . Elsie and Alfred Owen at their son Frank’s grave

A COUPLE were devastated when they discovered flowers laid on their son’s grave had been stolen.

Alfred and Elsie Owen’s son, Frank, was buried in Greenacres Cemetery five years ago after he died at the age of 44.

The couple have kept a fortnightly vigil at his graveside ever since, making the journey from Fitton Hill to Greenacres to keep their son’s memory alive.

On their last visit, Mr Owen (71) and his 76-year-old wife were horrified to find flowers they had placed on his grave had disappeared.

Also missing was a wreath for one of their grand-daughters, which was laid on her Uncle Frank’s grave after she was cremated.

The couple, who have nine other children, were shocked by the heartlessness of the thieves.

Mr Owen said: “Ours were artificial flowers because we found that fresh ones only lasted a few days. We have two lots and change them every time we go, so we can bring the others home to wash.

“They cost us £45, but this is not about the money, it’s about the fact someone has desecrated Frank’s grave and also taken the wreath which was there in memory of our grand-daughter.

“We are both devastated.”

Councillor Mark Alcock, cabinet member for environment and infrastructure, said: “We are aware of this incident and I understand how upsetting this must be to the family.”

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

“Staff at Greenacres Cemetery have told me there is no evidence at present to suggest that this alleged theft is anything other than an isolated incident.

“Our First Response security service will be keeping a close watch on the site. Contact numbers for security, police and council officers are displayed on the notice board at the entrance to the cemetery.”