A DAUGHTER has been left devastated after a “cherished memento” was stolen from near her dad’s grave at a Rochford cemetery.

On the 12th anniversary of her father’s passing, Kandy Tolson has been left heartbroken to find that a large, hand-shaped bench lovingly placed as a tribute, has been stolen.

The cherished memento has been in place at her father’s grave at Thornton Meadow Cemetery for more than ten years.

However, after visiting on Sunday, Kandy found the distinctive hand had vanished.

Purchased with funds from selling his cherished car, the bench held deep meaning for the family, who are now left devastated by its absence.

Heartbreak - Stolen from the gravesite of a dad in RochfordHeartbreak - Stolen from the gravesite of a dad in Rochford (Image: Kandy Tolson)

As they hold on to hope, they are asking the community to be on the lookout, hoping the bench might somehow find its way back.

Kandy said: “I was so angry when I first discovered it had gone, and now I am just saddened by it because I think the people that have taken it have absolutely no idea how it affects those who own it.

“I am now not expecting it back, but I would like to highlight how awful it is. All the trinkets and graveside items are so special and offer comfort in those moments of grief and despair.

“I have often sat on the hand chair and cried my heart out over losing my dad. It was more than just a decoration; it was a source of comfort and a reminder of my father’s vibrant personality.”

Kandy’s late dad, Terry Salthouse, was diagnosed with kidney cancer in 2009, and fought for several years before sadly passing in November 2012.

Her mum was the last to visit the grave site on October 14, before Kandy found it missing this weekend, so the family say it was taken between that time frame.

His daughter added: “The loss of the hand is sorely missed by the family as it was cherished as being so unique and a fitting commemorative piece for my wonderfully, dearly, missed father.

“The chair served as a tangible link to him, a place where I could sit, reflect, and remember.

“I hope those responsible will understand the profound emotional distress their actions have caused.”