POLICE are hunting heartless thieves who stole gardening equipment from a cemetery.

The offenders forced a window at a chapel used as a storeroom at Blandford Cemetery to steal a Stihl strimmer and two red and grey Honda rotary mowers.

Officers said the crime took place between May 30 and June 1 and appealed for information from the ublic.

PC Rob Hammond of Blandford Police said: “I am appealing for witnesses who saw suspicious behaviour in Blandford Cemetery at this time to come forward.

“I am also keen to hear from anyone who has been offered red and grey Honda rotary mowers or a Stihl strimmer for sale in strange circumstances or for an unusually low price. “Anyone with information that can assist the investigation is asked to contact the police in confidence.”

Witnesses and anyone with information should call Dorset Police in confidence on 101, quoting incident number 2:67, or the free and anonymous Crimestoppers line on 0800 555 111 where mobile phone tariffs may apply.