Ilkley'S police inspector has summoned extra help as she fights to thwart vandals causing havoc in a cemetery.

The Keighley Police Division's Community Action Team has been requested to act as an extra presence in the Leamington Terrace cemetery.

Inspector Alison Bennett, of Ilkley Police, said officers across the division could request help for particular problems or problem areas.

Insp Bennett hopes the presence of extra officers will deter further acts of vandalism and lead to arrests if anyone is caught in the act. Would-be hooligans will not know when the Action Team officers will be in a particular area.

Insp Bennett said: "We can request help to tackle a problem which is causing considerable upset and misery for residents living in a particular area. It offers high visibility policing."

The bid to tackle cemetery

vandalism follows the smashing of dozens of crosses and headstones last month.

Ilkley parish councillor Lexa Robinson (Con, Ilkley North)

condemned the actions of hooligans as 'sadistic.'

Insp Bennett said it was an appaling offence, showing no respect for the living or the dead.

Anyone with information about vandalism in the cemetery can contact Ilkley Police on 01943 601060.

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