������̳

Families visiting loved ones' graves in the run-up to Christmas have been left upset by thieves breaking into cemeteries, a councillor has said.

Metal pipes and taps have been stolen from five graveyards in Bridgend county, which John Spanswick said showed "utter disrespect for the dead".

This has left the cemeteries without a water supply, causing distress for those tending graves, he added.

South Wales Police has asked the public to report suspicious behaviour.

Sexton's huts and maintenance outbuildings at the graveyards have also been targeted.

Mr Spanswick, cabinet member for the environment and climate change, said: "The thefts have so far taken place at cemeteries in Pontycymmer, Ogmore Vale, Porthcawl, Cornelly and Laleston, and each site has been subjected to additional vandalism.

"This has meant that the cemeteries have been left without a water supply, which has caused upset for people visiting the graves of loved ones in the run-up to Christmas."

He said the council was making arrangements for the damage to be repaired.

He added: "Targeting a cemetery, demonstrating utter disrespect for the dead and causing unnecessary upset for people who are already grieving is both despicable and irresponsible."