Security is to be stepped up after thieves caused damage which will coast hundreds of pounds to repair at a village cemetery.

They broke their way into a workshop but got away with just two cans of petrol from the site in Clay Lane, St Osyth.

However, they smashed leaded windows in the chapel and other windows in the St Osyth Historical Society's museum, which is based there.

It is the second raid on the cemetery in about a year.

Parish council chairman Michael Talbot said extra measures had been taken after the last break-in, adding: "We had grills put up and a sturdy padlock on the door but they still managed to get into the workshop again."

Parish councillor Brenda Lord said the damage would certainly run into at least hundreds of pounds and they were still getting estimates for the work

Anyone who has any information which could help catch those responsible should contact Clacton Police on 01255 221312.

Published Monday January 19, 2004

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