When Midlothian man Ryan Butt visited his grandparents' grave yesterday (8 May), he found that someone had 'stolen' lights from the grave area, and what's worse - this isn't the first time it had happened.
The grave is at Cockpen New Cemetery in Dalkeith , and Ryan's experience has been mirrored by many other people whose loved ones have been laid to rest at the cemetery.
In social media posts going back to 2016, people have reported that items like wreaths, lights, ornaments and even a miniature Christmas tree have gone missing from graves at the cemetery.
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Ryan himself had items go missing from the grave before this incident. In August 2018, a lavender plant and rose gold butterfly decoration were taken.
In a furious statement on Facebook on 8 May, Ryan said:
"COCKPEN NEW CEMETERY
"Was at my gran and grandads grave again today to find that someone has stolen lights off there grave
"You will get caught at some point.
"PLEASE IF YOU HAVE HAD ANYTHING STOLEN FROM A GRAVE PLEASE CONTACT POLICE
"Hope The LOW LIFE SCUM GET THERE DAY."
And the day before (7 May), another local resident said that the same thing happened to her dad's grave:
The items have been going missing overnight, which makes it unlikely that council workers have been removing them.
Local residents flocked to leave messages of support and offer help to both of the people affected. One man said:
"Bethany I don't know you, but my heart goes out to you. These small items that are left at a grave are so precious to the families of the person who has been laid to rest.
"Thankfully they cannot steal away the memories you have of your dad. May he continue to Rest in Peace and my thoughts are extended to you and your family."
If you have seen anything suspicious at Cockpen New Cemetery in Dalkeith, or have any more information about the removal of the items, you can contact Police Scotland on 101, or alternatively get in touch with Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
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