A GRIEVING family has called on dog owners to stop allowing their pets to run wild in a cemetery.

Grandmother Carol Ward says she broke down in tears after finding dog mess next to her grandson's grave in Farnworth Cemetery.

Flowers and toys kept on little Kai Atcha's grave had also been ripped up and scattered across the churchyard.

Mrs Ward, of Crummock Grove, Farnworth, said: "My daughter Zoe, Kai's mum, and I had gone there together "We couldn't believe it when we saw the state of the grave.

"It was obvious a dog was responsible, the head of a teddy bear had been ripped off and the flower arrangements had been damaged, but the worst thing was the dog mess next to the grave.

"It's disgraceful. It just shows a total and utter lack of respect."

Kai, who was born prematurely at 29 weeks, spent most of his short life in hospital battling a bowel and gut infection.

He survived five major operations, but suffered liver damage and died from multiple organ failure on December 30, aged 17 months.

Kai was buried in Farnworth Cemetery on Tuesday, January 9.

The Rev Cherry Vann, who is in charge of Farnworth's Anglican churches, said: "This is about showing consideration and respect for other people and taking responsibility for your own dog.

"The security, safety and maintenance of the cemetery is actually the responsibility of the council, but we can all do our part.

"It has been suggested that we install CCTV, but if people are determined to get into the cemetery they will find a way."

Last month several families were contacted by church officials to notify them about similar damage to their loved ones' graves, believed to have been caused by dogs or vandals.

A Bolton Council spokesman said: "Staff are investigating the complaint and will take appropriate action regarding the grave.

"Unfortunately, it is very difficult to stop people from walking their dogs through the cemetery as it borders a country park.

"In light of this latest complaint, the dog wardens will be contacted to monitor the situation.

"Anyone caught allowing their dog to foul in the cemetery could be issued with an on-the-spot fine."

Anyone with a complaint about Bolton cemeteries should call 01204 334499.