Headstone to be removed for cemetery’s ‘dignity and sanctity’

Sir Jimmy Savile’s family was last night planning to remove the elaborate headstone from his grave to ensure the “dignity and sanctity” of a cemetery.

The grave in Scarborough, North Yorkshire, has been targeted by vandals – a bottle was thrown at it last week, but it was not damaged, police said. The engraved triple headstone is expected to be removed today.

A family spokesman said: “The family members are deeply aware of the impact that the stone remaining there could have on the dignity and sanctity of the cemetery.

“Out of respect to public opinion, to those who are buried there, and to those who tend their graves and visit there, we have decided to remove it.”

Other memorials to Savile have already been removed, including an inscription on the wall at Leeds Civic Hall and a street sign in Scarborough.

ANGUS HOWARTH