HEARTLESS burglars broke into the Easthampstead Park crematorium and stole work tools, meaning the out-of-hours visiting times have been scrapped.

On Tuesday April 3, overnight, burglars broke into the grounds of the crematorium and stole garden equipment and hand tools.

Police have launched an inquiry into the incident, and the council has been forced to limit the opening hours of the remembrance grounds.

Public will no longer be able to visit after 6pm or before 8.30am, as the out of hours opening times have been cancelled.

Before, residents were able to access the grounds to pay tribute out of these hours by accessing through a side gate, which will now be locked.

Steve Loudoun, chief officer for environment and public protection, said: “It is with great regret that we have had to suspend out of hours visiting at the cemetery and crematorium as we know that some people have found the ability to visit later on in the afternoon and early evening beneficial.

“However, due to the burglary last night we need to review security measures as we cannot risk any more equipment being stolen.

“We’re sorry that the actions of callous and opportunist burglars has compromised the informal out of hours visiting arrangements we had in place but hope that people understand we need to protect the cemetery and crematorium from any further possible criminal activity.”

A statement from Thames Valley Police read: "Thames Valley Police received a report of a burglary at Easthampstead Park Crematorium in South Road, Bracknell. At around 3am yesterday (April 3) offender/s forced entry to a building and entered a gardeners' compound from which equipment was stolen. 

"Officers are investigating and if anyone has any information they should contact the 24-hour Thames Valley Police enquiry centre on 101 quoting reference 43180099947"