The recent vandalism attacks at Mill Road Cemetery have been criticised by Cambridge City Council. Much of the damage has seen headstones destroyed and graffiti sprayed all over the area.
The cemetery was created in 1848 to provide a burial space as the population of Cambridge grew bigger. Although it is no longer accepting burials, it is still being maintained as a churchyard and open space and is also an English Heritage Grade II listed space.
Damage has taken place over the last couple of months, with numerous reports being made since the start of the year. Vandals have mainly targeted the centre circle, with gravestones either knocked down or completely broken.
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Cllr Alex Collis, Executive Councillor for Open Spaces, Food Justice and Community Development, said: "It is really upsetting that there has been another totally pointless spate of vandalism at Mill Road Cemetery. We have been in touch with the Friends of Mill Road Cemetery group and have told them that the council would like to contribute £2,500 to help with repairs to the damaged memorials.
"Of course we wish this wasn’t necessary but are pleased to be able to assist the group in restoring these historic gravestones which mean so much to people. We will continue to meet regularly with the Friends to discuss further ways to protect and enhance this treasured space, and try and prevent vandalism there."
A spokesperson for Friends of Mill Road Cemetery added: "Damaging headstones that have been erected in memory of people's parents, grandparents, brothers, sisters or other relatives is a crime against the monuments, but also against the memory of the dead. It is an affront to us all."
The cemetery have asked anyone who has any information or has seen anything to do with the damage to get in touch with them immediately. This can be done via their Facebook page or by email.
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