Every time I visit Thorntree Cemetery to lay flowers and tokens at my loved ones' graves, I am filled with trepidation. Often, these offerings of love and remembrance are gone the next day, pinched by whoever finds them first. This is not just heartbreaking for me, but for countless others who hope to keep the memories of their beloved alive through these small acts of care. It's clear to me and many others that something must be done to protect what remains of our family bonds.

Thorntree Cemetery hosts countless graves, each bearing its own story and legacy. Families travel from near and far, seeking solace in the simple act of decorating their loved one's resting place with flowers, teddies, and personal items. Astonishingly, these items are often stolen, leaving grieving families with a deeper sense of loss and frustration. This constant theft is not just an act of vandalism; it is a direct assault on the sacred space meant to honour those we have lost.

The absence of security measures such as cameras or regular patrols at Thorntree Cemetery has allowed this issue to persist. Other cemeteries across the country have successfully implemented security measures that not only deter potential thieves but also provide families with peace of mind, knowing their tributes will remain undisturbed.

What we are asking for is simple and reasonable: the installation of security cameras at key points throughout Thorntree Cemetery to deter theft and ensure a safe and respectful environment for all visitors. This will require the cooperation of local authorities and the management of the cemetery, but it is a necessary step to protect the spaces that we hold dear.

Implementing security measures will not only preserve the sanctity of the cemetery but will also offer a sense of justice to families who have had their sacred mementos taken. It is in everyone's interest that we act swiftly to prevent further heartache and to restore respect for the resting places of our loved ones.

We urge the authorities responsible for Thorntree Cemetery to consider the emotional and sentimental needs of the friends and families of the departed. By installing security cameras, they can help ensure that people’s final resting places remain peaceful and respected.

Please sign this petition to support the installation of security cameras at Thorntree Cemetery. Together, we can protect our loved ones’ resting places and preserve the dignity they deserve.