It is now considering extra security
Gabriel Shepard Assistant Head of Print
17:13, 04 Jun 2025
Some of the damage pictured at Arnos Vale(Image: ©Arnos Vale Cemetery Trust)
Vandals smashed graves and broke into the historic crypt of Arnos Vale Cemetery during a series of incidents last week. Trustees of the burial grounds are now reluctantly considering paying for overnight security guards and even limiting access to the public.
The destruction took place on several evenings last week and could end up costing £20,000 to repair. A cemetery spokesman said: “Arnos Vale Cemetery Trust is saddened to report a series of incidents that took place last week, involving deliberate damage to several parts of the site.
“A total of seven graves were affected, with Victorian marble headstones toppled and stonework smashed. The boiler room and crypt of the Anglican Chapel, a Grade-II listed building, were also broken into, sustaining significant damage in the process.
“We have been in contact with the families connected to the graves that have been vandalised. This vandalism has understandably caused concern to everyone that cherishes Arnos Vale Cemetery as a place of remembrance, reflection and heritage.
“As a registered charity, Arnos Vale Cemetery Trust relies on public support and donations to care for this historic site. Acts of vandalism place additional pressure on limited resources and divert funds away from day-to-day maintenance and conservation work across the cemetery and its listed buildings.”
Top of an angel’s wings broken off (Image: ©Arnos Vale Cemetery Trust Arnos Vale)
The team is said to be working closely with police and has begun assessing further security measures for the cemetery, which may mean added costs for overnight security and additional security cameras.
It remains open 24 hours a day, serving as a key pedestrian route and green space. However, while trustees say they are committed to maintaining open access, they have warned further incidents could force a review of that.
Ann Fiddler, chief executive of Arnos Vale Cemetery Trust, said: “Arnos Vale has always been a space cared for and respected by the local community. We are grateful for the continued support and ask everyone to remain vigilant and report any signs of new damage.”
Arnos Vale was established as a Victorian garden cemetery in 1839. More than 300,000 people are now buried or remembered there. Incidents should be reported to the police, quoting crime reference number AF-20250531-0744.
The Arnos Vale Cemetery team can also be contacted on 0117 971 9117 during office hours or email info@arnosvale.org.uk