POLICE officers investigating a wrecking spree at a Poole cemetery where 25 graves were smashed have released an image of the shoe print found at the graveyard.

The incident happened at the Dorchester Road site on Friday, January 25 or the early hours of Saturday, January 26.

Headstones were pushed and kicked over, some were broken and items such as floral displays and little wooden crosses for the recently deceased were thrown around and trampled on.

The graves of a soldier killed in the First World War and a six-month-old boy who died eight years ago were among those attacked.

Police Sergeant David Parr, from Poole police, said: “Following forensic examinations, a shoe print has been obtained which is believed to be that of the offender.

“The tread is similar to that of a Reebok 321 branded sole, commonly used on the Reebok Classic trainer, although we are aware that other varieties and brands use the same design.

Bournemouth Echo:

“It would appear this print is of adult size but it is difficult to be precise, and only one set have been found indicating the suspect acted alone.

“I would like to renew my appeal for information as to the identity of this offender, who we believe to be a teenager or adult man, and possibly living in the vicinity of Oakdale.

“Therefore we are appealing to members of the public who may have noticed someone acting strangely at the cemetery around this time, or are aware that a friend or loved one returned home at an unusual time acting suspiciously.

“We have no doubt that the terrain in the cemetery around the time this offence took place would have been muddy, so we are urging people to be vigilant in case someone they know has dirty shoes matching the print.”

A 23-year-old man from Poole arrested in connection with this incident has been released without charge, and enquiries are continuing.

Witnesses and anyone with information should call Dorset Police in confidence on 101 quoting incident number 26:177. Alternatively, call the free and anonymous Crimestoppers line on 0800 555 111 where mobile phone tariffs may apply.