Memorial plaques at Croydon crematorium have again been targeted by thieves.

Council staff were dismayed to discover the theft of 66 bronze memorial plaques, when they turned up for work on Tuesday morning.

The crematorium in Mitcham Road, has repeatedly been targeted by thieves who almost certainly took the plaques for their scrap value.

Thefts were also reported at the site in June and the council temporarily removed all of the plaques and stored them for safety.

After discussions with their owners, some plaques were replaced with less valuable materials, but others were put back out having first been treated with 'smart water.'

This product provides an invisible marker, allowing recovered stolen goods to be traced back to their owners once they have been scanned using specialist equipment.

All of the remaining bronze plaques have once again been removed and the council will be writing to the owners of those that have been stolen, to offer them the option of buying new ones made from less valuable materials at a reduced rate.

Councillor Simon Hoar, cabinet member for community safety, said: "Security at this site is difficult because it is so large and we aim to keep it open as much as possible so that those wishing to pay their respects can do so whenever they wish.

"These thefts are massively upsetting, and my personal feelings go out to the families concerned.

"We will be working closely with the police to find those responsible, but if anyone does have information that might help us bring the culprits to justice, then they should contact Crimestoppers."