Police have launched an urgent appeal for information following a “despicable” theft from a Fife graveside.
A newly-erected shrine built in memory of a baby Elise Griffiths has been destroyed and toys left at the plot also stolen.
It is the second time in a year Elise’s grave has been targeted by vandals.
Heartbroken parents Karen Tabb and Ryan Griffiths from Inverkeithing discovered the grave in a mess and flowers stolen just days after burying their daughter in September last year.
Ryan posted on Facebook that he hoped the culprits of the latest incident are caught so his daughter can “rest in peace once and for all”.
“This is the second time in one year. I feel sick and rage, like we can’t even put things down for her.”
The theft was discovered on Tuesday by Ryan when he visited Dunfermline Cemetery on Halbeath Road.
Inspector Ian Flynn said the crime had devastated the youngster’s family.
He said: “This is a despicable and utterly disrespectful act of vandalism and theft which has left the parents of the child completely distraught.
“We are keen to hear from anyone who remembers seeing any suspicious activity around the cemetery over the past few days or who has information that can help us identify the cruel individuals who carried out this crime.
“I would also ask those with any further information relevant to our ongoing inquiries contacts police immediately.”
Elise was stillborn last year and the shrine, put up last weekend, was erected to mark the first anniversary of her death.
Police believe the crime happened between Saturday and Tuesday, August 22-25.
Anybody with information can contact Police Scotland on 101 or the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 1111.
Picture by David Wardle