A granite cross memorial on top of her grave in Queen Street Cemetery, Caldmore, was smashed to pieces.

It is believed a hammer was used in the attack.

The nursing pioneer, born Dorothy Wyndlow Pattison, became a heroine in the Black Country in the 19th Century after the compassion she showed during times of illness and accident.

'Disgusting' desecration

The tribute has stood above Sister Dora's grave since she died in 1878.

Stuart Williams, from the local history centre, said: "We are appalled at the news and it is sad for the people of Walsall."

Councillor Garry Perry said: "I wish to express my shock and disgust that someone has chosen to vandalise a tribute to one of Walsall's most famous people."

Inspector Jerry Byrne, from Walsall police, said: "It is disgusting, it is desecration and something we are looking into."

Walsall Council has teamed up with Bloxwich-based monumental stonemasons Andrew Walsh to get a new �4,000 memorial fitted.

It should be in place by August or September.