An increase in thefts from Norwich's Earlham Cemetery has led to police branding the culprits as 'wicked and cruel'.

The Evening News had already reported how two holly wreaths were stolen from graves on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day, but it has now emerged that toys were snatched from a child's grave shortly afterwards.

A Postman Pat van and a Lightning McQueen car were taken from the children's section of the cemetery between 9am on Boxing Day and 9am on Friday, December 30.

Another wreath was also taken from the cemetery between 11am on Friday, December 23 and 11am on Tuesday, December 27.

A spokesman for Norfolk police said: 'There has been a sharp increase in thefts from Earlham Cemetery over the Christmas period.

'This type of action is very distressing for the victim at any time of year, especially as these items are left as tokens of love and remembrance to those sadly missed.

'This is a wicked and cruel act.

'Norfolk Constabulary offers its sympathies to all those affected.

'We take this type of crime seriously and are committed to investigating this matter fully.'

Anyone with knowledge of the thefts or anyone who has seen people acting suspiciously in the cemetery should call PC Simon Gooch at Earlham Police Station on 101.

Have you been affected by the problems at the cemetery? Call Dan Grimmer on 01603 772375 or email dan.grimmer@archant.co.uk