Bars stolen from graves

Controversial metal bars that were clamped to graves at Sandwell cemeteries have been stolen by metal thieves.

Raiders struck at Uplands Cemetery in Smethwick in the last few days, ripping up the aluminium stakes attached to headstones. The bars were fitted to graves by Sandwell Council after safety tests revealed they could be in danger of toppling.

Families who visit graves in borough cemeteries reacted with anger when they discovered the bars had been fitted and luminous warning stickers slapped onto headstones.

It has not yet been revealed how many of the bars were taken but the thefts have been condemned by mourners and senior councillors.One pensioner who visits her husband's grave at the Uplands said she was shocked by the thefts.

She said: "I couldn't believe it when I was told. We didn't like to see the posts on the graves but this kind of thing is really heartless.

"To steal from a graveyard is just disgusting."

Charlemont Councillor Ray Nock said he first heard about the raids from an elderly resident.

"We've even had cases in the past where people have taken aluminium flower pots from graveyards," he said. "It is just despicable that anyone could enter a graveyard with theft in mind."

Councillor Mahboob Hussain, Sandwell Council's cabinet member for neighbourhoods and housing, said: "We are investigating the theft of stabilising bars. Any that have been taken will be replaced. This is a disgraceful act."

The thefts are the latest metal raids across the Black Country. Operation Steel was launched by West Midlands Police last year to crackdown on thieves.

By Emma Sloper