DETECTIVES are appealing for information following the theft of 262 bronze memorial plaques from a crematorium.

The plaques have been prised from walls at Medway's Crematorium Garden of Remembrance in Robin Hood Lane, Chatham.

It happened sometime between 6pm on Monday, November 26, and 7am on Tuesday November 27.

The plaques were intended as permanent memorials to loved ones placed by friends and family of the deceased.

It appears they were taken to a vehicle on the nearby road using a wheelie bin and wheelbarrow which were then left behind.

A police investigation, which includes identifying opportunities for forensic examination, into the theft has been launched.

Det Ch Insp Jon Clayden said: "The people responsible for this theft are beneath contempt.

"This was not an opportunistic crime. Clearly it was planned but it is hard to imagine how someone could do this knowing they would be hurting people who have already experienced grief through the loss of a relative or friend."

He added: "My appeal is for anyone who has any information about this theft to contact police. A vehicle was involved and someone may have seen it or someone may have been approached about the scrap value of the metal. If you know anything please contact us."

Paul Edwards, Medway Council’s bereavement and registration services manager, said: "These people must be heartless individuals who have no regard for the feelings of others and no respect for the dead or the bereaved.

“I and the staff at Medway Crematorium would like to extend our sympathies to the families that have had their plaques stolen. We will be contacting everyone affected, and working hard to make sure that all plaques are replaced.”

Police are not ruling out the possibility that this incident may be linked to similar thefts earlier this year at Vinters Park, Maidstone.

Kent Police can be contacted on 01732 379217 or Kent Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. Callers to Crimestoppers do not have to give their name and may be eligible for a cash reward.