THIEVES have stolen the gates to Ramsey s cemetery – leaving the town with a £4,000 replacement bill. Residents in the town have been left disappointed and saddened at the theft. The gates, which were fitted last July after the completion of a new ceme

THIEVES have stolen the gates to Ramsey's cemetery - leaving the town with a £4,000 replacement bill.

Residents in the town have been left "disappointed and saddened" at the theft.

The gates, which were fitted last July after the completion of a new cemetery in Wood Lane, were stolen some time between June 23 and 30.

They were due to be consecrated by the Bishop of Ely later this month.

Lorraine Russell, Ramsey's town clerk, told The Hunts Post: "I couldn't believe it when I found out the gates had been stolen. It is such bad taste.

"All the people I've spoken to in Ramsey have expressed disappointment as the gates were not even a year old.

"The gates were due to be consecrated on July 20 by the Bishop of Ely, but we don't have them any more, which is a real shame and embarrassment."

Temporary fencing is now being used at the entrance to the cemetery, where the 6ft iron gates used to be until new ones can be made.

Mayor of Ramsey, Cllr Ian Walker, added: "It was a real shock when we were told the cemetery gates had been stolen. We never imagined anyone would be interested in stealing cemetery gates but they must have wanted them for their scrap value. We hope people will come forward with information to help us find our gates and the people responsible for this theft."

INFORMATION: Anyone with information should contact police on 0845 4564564 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.