Balderton neighbourhood policing team reutines stolen items from Balderton Cemetery with families

Police have renewed their appeal to help return sentimental items stolen from graves at Balderton Cemetery to their rightful owners.

Following a community drop-in event held on Saturday (June 28), officers from the Balderton neighbourhood policing team were able to reunite seven recovered items with bereaved families, but nine remain unclaimed.

The thefts are believed to have taken place at Balderton Cemetery, Mount Road, between March 30 and June 15.

The items, including teddies and personalised ornaments, are thought to have been taken from graves without the families’ knowledge, prompting a police investigation despite no formal theft reports being received.

A 50-year-old woman has been voluntarily interviewed in connection with the inquiry, which remains ongoing.

Officers have now teamed up with Balderton Parish Council to continue efforts to return the stolen mementoes, recognising how distressing the incident has been for those affected.

“We’re extremely grateful to everyone who came along to the session and to those who shared our appeal,” said a spokesperson for the Balderton beat policing team. “Thanks to that overwhelming support, we’ve been able to return seven items. However, we still have nine precious belongings yet to be claimed.”

The appeal is being supported by PCSO Katie Hewerdine, who is acting as the main point of contact for families.

“If you recognise any of the items we’ve recovered as missing from a loved one’s grave, please do get in touch,” the spokesperson added. “Our priority is to return these items as quickly and sensitively as possible.”

Anyone with information or who believes they may be missing an item is encouraged to contact PCSO Hewerdine by phone on 07814 066614 or by email at katherine.hewerdine@notts.police.uk.

Balderton Parish Council previously said it was “saddened” by news of the thefts and is continuing to support police efforts.