Vandals who targeted Macclesfield Crematorium have been branded despicable.
The yobs cut telephone lines and lighting cables before ripping lightning conductors from the roof and torching lamp covers.
The callous crooks then scorched a swear word into the door of the chapel.
Shocked staff discovered the damage when they arrived at work on Monday morning.
It is believed to have taken place some time over the weekend
.
The crematorium, off Prestbury Road, is run by Orbitas, an arms-length company owned by Cheshire East Council.
Council chiefs believe that the offenders turned to vandalism when they found that tiles and flashing on the chapel had no scrap value.
Councillor Lesley Smetham, deputy chairman of Orbitas, said: “I was extremely disturbed to be told of this incident.
“We think of our cemeteries as quiet tranquil places. The chapel is a place where people come to pay their respect to their loved ones.
“This shows a lack of respect for the bereaved.
“It is just a despicable act.”
