A business owner has stepped forward to help people who fell victim to a metal thief.

As previously reported, memorial plaques have been prised from benches in two parks in Gillingham.

More than 30 of the tributes were taken from Riverside Country Park and nearby Hillyfields Community Park.

After reading the stories on KentOnline, Marc Hobden got in touch to say he would like to replace the plaques for free.

The 32-year-old is the owner of models and games shop, Ragnarok Hobbies, which is based in Canterbury Street, Gillingham.

He says he can easily produce quality plastic replacements for relatives who get in touch.

The dad-of-one said: "I really don't know why people would want to steal something like a small plaque, it's not as if they're going to get a lot for scrap metal. It's very sad. I have the ability to be able to help the relatives out, so will happily do so for free."

The business was previously known as Wargamers' Den, but Marc, of Solomon Road, Rainham, renamed it Ragnarok Hobbies earlier this year.

The unusual title comes from Norse legend and means end of the world.

One of the theft victims was a former Medway councillor who discovered it was missing when he visited on the anniversary of his wife's death.

Another was Teresa Bradley who told how disgusted that a bench cared for by her late dad had been targeted.

Reacting to Marc's offer, she said: "What a lovely thing for him to do. Something like this really does restore you faith in humanity."

Meanwhile, police have confirmed officers are investigating and anyone with information should call the appeal line on 01634 792209, quoting crime reference 46/184917/20 or call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or using the online form.

If you have been affected and would like to take Marc up on his offer, please email medway@thekmgroup.co.uk – including your name, contact telephone number, required size and wording.

To get the latest updates in ongoing cases, police appeals and criminals put behind bars, click here

Read more: all the latest news from Medway