CCTV may be used to expose thief who has been preying on the bereaved

POLICE in Honiton aim to exhaust every possible avenue in a bid to catch a thief, who has been stealing flowers from graves in the town.

A spate of thefts from St Michael's Churchyard has left bereaved families devastated.

The latest thefts happened between August 9 and 11.

Increased police patrols in the area have, so far, failed to nail the culprit.

The patrols are set to continue.

Neighbourhood Beat Manager Jo Arundale says: "We are looking into the possible use of CCTV.

"However, we have to consider the element of intrusion and also seek authorisation.

"We would also have to seek the consent of the church."

PC Arundale praised the churchyard committee for its support during investigations.

"The church has been very, very helpful," she said.

Tina Isaac, who has a number of relatives buried at St Michael's, is outraged by the thefts.

"I was so angry I vented my feelings on a radio show," she told the Herald. "I was trembling afterwards.

"I'd like to hear from anybody who feels as angry as I do."

The Herald understands that flowers were stolen from the graves of children, as well as those recently buried.

Tina can be contacted on (01404) 41543.