Fourteen headstones were damaged, including two broken at Saffron Hill Cemetery, Leicester probably some time on Wednesday night.

Muslim community leaders have appealed for people to remain calm while actions are taken to restore the site.

Investigating officers have described the incident as "sickening" and asked for anyone with information to help.

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Suleman Nagdi, a trustee of the Muslim Burial Council, said: "We are all working very hard together to try and resolve this terrible incident.

"I would appeal to everyone to try and remain calm at this difficult time. I can assure you that all the agencies are doing everything possible."

Insp Chris Redfern of Leicestershire police said: "This is a sickening crime which we are taking extremely seriously.