AFTER a recent spate of antisocial behaviour, vandalism and theft from graves, Thurrock Council's opposition Labour group has called on the Conservative authority to start locking cemeteries at night again - reversing a policy first proposed by a Labour administration.

The most prominent act of desecration took place in Chadwell St Mary cemetery last weekend, but there have been many other similar incidents reported across the borough.

Chadwell councillor, Sara Muldowney, said: "When I questioned why the gates were no longer being locked, I was told it was a cost saving measure and that the decision would be reviewed if there were reports of crime or antisocial behaviour.

"Now, not only have we had the horrendous vandalism last weekend, but the weekend before I reported a gang of nuisance motorbikes and quad bikes in Chadwell cemetery terrorising residents trying to tend their loved ones' graves.

"Local residents from Chadwell, Tilbury and other areas of the borough have been in contact to tell me that ornaments and other mementos they have lovingly laid on their relatives' graves have been stripped and smashed.

"These items hold precious memories for families who no longer have loved ones with them and are absolutely devastated by their loss. It's particularly upsetting when the loss has been recent and these momentos were placed until the gravestone could be placed. I have asked for the gates to be locked again after dark, as promised, only to be told this would not stop the vandals."

Labour's spokesperson on the environment and community safety, Cllr Jane Pothecary, added: "We know the council has financial problems but to leave our cemeteries vulnerable to this kind of thoughtless behaviour is an insult to the memory of those who rest there.

"Cemeteries are supposed to be a peaceful haven for families to remember their loved ones. They should not be left as an easy target for vandals. Thurrock Council needs to take some responsibility and work together with local communities to protect our cemeteries."

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While the Labour opposition have been keen to dig out the Conservative administration over the cost-cutting measures, they were actually first proposed when the council was under Labour control as far back as 2010.

Thurrock Council leader Cllr Rob Gledhill has condemned the vandalism, but says the fault does not lie with the council - but with the offenders.