A DISTRESSED family's hand-made memorial to their mother has been destroyed during an act of vandalism in a Somerset graveyard.

An arm of a 2ft wooden cross made by the dead woman's son was intentionally snapped off, according to police.

Police are appealing for information about the incident in the new cemetery at Stoke St Gregory Church between 3.30pm on Wednesday, March 16 and 3.30pm the following day.

PC Ben Hicks said: “The cross was handmade by the victim’s brother for their mother’s grave so it had immense sentimental value.

“One of the arms of the cross was snapped off so it’s clearly been damaged deliberately.

“It’s hard to imagine how anyone could, or would want to, cause damage to any items on a grave.

"It’s an extremely thoughtless act and has caused great distress to this family.

“If you saw or heard anything suspicious in the area of the church around the time of the damage, or know who may be responsible, please call us.”

If you can help, call PC Ben Hicks on 101 and quote reference 5216058653.