Louts trash memorial garden (From Wilts and Gloucestershire Standard)

Louts trash memorial garden

HEARTLESS louts ransacked a garden, which had been set up as a memorial to a couple's baby daughter.

Jason Lambert says his family has been left devastated by the act, which took place on Saturday night.

The garden, in Parklands Square, includes a tree and a rose, which had been planted in memory of baby Jasmine, who died two years ago.

However, the family returned home on Saturday night to discover that thieves had stolen the solar lights used to illuminate the memorials.

Now Mr Lambert is appealing to the culprits to come clean and return the items.

He said: "It's hit us quite hard. Our family bought us the lights and we put them out front to light it up and make it look nice.

"I didn't sleep all night on Saturday. Everytime I open the door I can't face going out."

Jasmine passed away two years ago, aged six months, after suffering from a heart condition.

The Lambert family were determined her memory would live on and set about turning the front garden of their property into a lasting tribute.

Although upset with the events of Saturday evening, Mr Lambert says that if the culprits return the items they have stolen, he would rather not prosecute.

He added: "We'd like to tell them we need some work doing. If it's young people, we'd speak to their parents and arrange something with them. "That way, it will teach them a lesson and make them work hard."

However, the police are keen to catch the culprits and are appealing for information.

Police spokesman Matt Ford said: "These lights are obviously of great sentimental to the victim. Their disappearance would naturally be particularly distressing.

"We would urge anyone with information as to the whereabouts of these items to get in touch immediately."

Anyone with information about the theft is also invited to contact Mr Lambert at 6 Parklands Square.