by Angela Cole

acole@thekmgroup.co.uk

Police are investigating after the theft of an urn containing a man's ashes were dug up and stolen from Maidstone Cemetery.

The theft of the ashes was discovered at the cemetery in Sutton Road, Maidstone, shortly after they had been buried on July 31.

Father-of-two Paul Scott, 43, had left instructions that he wished to be buried in the same plot as his grandmother.

But, following what is believed to be a family dispute, his ashes were taken.

A relative, who asked not to be named, said: "His family have been divided by this deed of theft. This wound will never be healed unless they are recovered."

His family are now offering a substantial reward for information leading to a successful conviction.

Mr Scott, who had been an occasional visitor at Maidstone Day Centre in Knightrider Street, Maidstone, died on June 15. A post mortem was carried out shortly after his death, but the results are still awaited.

Julie Davies, manager of the Day Centre in Knightrider Street, said: "He was always a cheerful as he could be. He was always helpful to other people. He had a really lovely and supportive family."

Police say the theft took place between July 31, after the ashes had been buried, and 11am on August 2, when the urn was discovered to have been taken.

The ashes were in a dark green plastic urn, with a paper label on the lid.

Anyone with information is asked to contact police in Maidstone on 01622 604 210 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.