MINDLESS vandals have gone on a rampage of destruction in St Lukes graveyard.

The thugs have desecrated loved ones graves over a number of days causing thousands of pounds worth of damage.

The graveyard, on Farnworth Street, is one of the oldest burial sites in Cheshire and is behind historic St Lukes church.

Gravestones have had flower vases thrown against them, which have caused deep scratches to the surfaces, and huge chunks have been chipped out of the memorials.

Police believe that the vandalism has been caused over a number of days and Widnes CID is investigating the incidents.

Flower vases have been emptied and lovingly placed flowers are now strewn across the grass.

A large cross statue also fell victim to the crazed spree.

Reverend Michael Freeman from St Lukes Church was upset about the vandalism.

He said: The problems with youngsters in the area had improved a lot after we had a community meeting before Christmas. Now, however, the problems seem to have risen again.

Just last week a group of older children were throwing stones at the church which almost hit one of the bell ringers and could have hurt him.

He added: Most of the graves that have been damaged are very old and no longer tended but it is very distressing for other people to see when they are at their relatives graves.

I would like to vandals to know how much distress it causes.

Det Con John Carter at Widnes CID said: We would like to appeal to anyone who may have seen anyone acting suspiciously near the graveyard and would urge them to get in touch with us about this awful crime.

If anyone has information they can contact Det Con John Carter at Widnes CID on 01244-613733. Alternatively, information can be left on the Crimestoppers hotline on 0800-555 111.