THE widow of an Ayr man killed in a road accident 13 years ago has spoken out after two Christmas wreaths were stolen from his graveside.

Alan Kennedy from Ayr was killed in an accident in the town in January 2005 and his wife Lilian discovered the theft of two family wreaths from her husband’s grave when she visited the cemetery to lay her own festive tribute earlier this week.

And now South Ayrshire Council is asking for the public’s help after a number of other thefts from Ayr Cemetery.

Lilian said: “I always have flowers at Alan’s grave, visit the cemetery regularly and knew that the family had started to lay this year’s wreaths ahead of Christmas. I was shocked when I got there and there was no sign of them and after telling the cemetery staff, I discovered there had been numerous thefts within the cemetery.

“I cannot understand why anyone would want to take something that has been laid in memory of someone who has passed away, especially at this time of year.

“It’s a truly disrespectful and despicable act – affecting more than just our family – and I hope people can help catch the heartless individuals responsible.”

Councillor Ian Cochrane, the Council’s Portfolio Holder for the Environment, said: “This is a mindless act by heartless thieves who are, quite simply, the lowest of the low – hitting families at what is always a difficult time of the year.

“These pointless thefts only serve to make the festive period even more of a struggle for these families and my heart goes out to them.”

“I would urge anyone with information about these thefts to contact the police at the earliest opportunity on 101 so they can stop anyone else’s Christmas being affected in the same way.”