Damage to baby graves in a section of a cemetery in Nottingham was caused by the weather, police said, after fears the plots may have been vandalised. Parents reported the damage after visiting High Wood Cemetery in Bulwell earlier this week to find plaques had snapped and keepsakes were ruined in the Muslim section of the cemetery.
Police investigation concludes
A Nottinghamshire Police spokesperson said: "We were contacted on Wednesday (12 August), following reports graveside memorials had been damaged in High Wood Cemetery, near Bulwell.
"Having conducted local inquiries since the report was made, we don't currently believe the damage to have been caused deliberately or maliciously. This update has now been shared with the member of the public who contacted the police."
Council confirms weather damage
A spokesperson for the city council, quoted by the Nottingham Post, said: "Following an inspection of the children’s graves at Highwood Cemetery, we can confirm that the graves have not been damaged or vandalised."
"The graves have been in place for a number of years and are marked with temporary name plaques. Over time, exposure to weather conditions has caused some of these plaques to deteriorate, becoming brittle and, in some cases, breaking or detaching."
"[Our] bereavement services team is aware of the condition of these temporary markers and has continued to respect the wishes of families regarding official memorialisation."
"Families have been able to retain the original temporary plaques or make alternative official memorial arrangements should they wish to do so."
"We remain committed to supporting bereaved families with sensitivity and care and are available to discuss memorial options with any families who may have concerns."
