Police probe alleged graveyard crime

Reports of an alleged crime in a graveyard in Rotherham were being investigated, South Yorkshire Police has said.

The incident related to a single grave within the grounds of All Saints Church in Laughton-en-le-Morthen, which lies to the south east of the town, officers said.

A police presence was visible at the Church of England site on Monday afternoon, and the grounds had been temporarily closed to members of the public.

Officers said the next-of-kin of the deceased person had been informed and were being supported by specially trained family liaison officers.

A South Yorkshire Police spokesperson added: "We understand this may be distressing for those whose loved ones are buried in the church yard.

"We would like to offer reassurance that we currently believe this was a targeted incident and there is no threat to other graves.

"For community reassurance, there will be visible patrols in the local area in the coming days."

A spokesperson for the church said they were hoping to open for "candle lighting and a time of quiet" in the coming days.

They added: "As a church we are praying for everyone affected by this. All Saints is a place of welcome and refuge for the whole community, and we know how upsetting and distressing this news will be for people."

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