The memorial plaque, which marked the resting place of Shane Youngson, was erected in early September and stolen between Friday, September 19 and Monday, September 29 from the Grange Cemetery.

Shane was tragically killed in an accident on December 14, 2006, aged 36.

His sister, Ruby Garden, told the Observer: "On August 25 I became the deed holder for my brother's grave and on August 28 I ordered the plaque.

"It was only put up on September 10 and some time between September 19, in the afternoon, and September 29, again in the afternoon, it has went missing.

"I'd urge any witnesses, anyone who has seen them taking it away or anyone who knows anything about it to come forward. We want it back," she said.



"Maybe someone has seen someone taking it away and not thought anything of it, or maybe thought it was just having letters adjusted or added on. I'm hopeful someone has seen something but never took notice but we can jog their memory and they will come forward.

"It really has caused a lot of distress. He had nothing up there for 19 months since late 2006 until this went up, and I wanted something on the grave to say this is where he is. He was the only little brother I had. My daughter and I actually put the stone up at 9am on September 10."

The value of the stone is more than £330, however Ruby stressed it is not the monetary value of the stone which is important to her.
The plaque is described as being 12" by 18" made of black granite with gold writing.

The inscription on the plaque reads: "In loving memory of Shane Youngson who died 14th Dec 2006 aged 36. Beloved husband of Lucie and brother of Ruby. With us always."

"Whoever did this is sick if you ask me. I'd appeal to them to hand it back or put it back at the grave, or leave it somewhere and let the police know where it is," Mrs Garden added.

"If it turns up I will just be happy it is back, I won't be looking for anyone to be punished, but if they don't come forward and they get caught I will want them prosecuted.

"If they haven't the heart to come forward themselves and witnesses come forward and it is proven they have done it then they will be prosecuted."

PC Graeme Cupples, who is the inquiring officer, said: "The plaque is valued at a low three-figure sum but it is not the monetary value that is the issue, it's the sentimental value and distress caused to the family by the theft that is more distressing. I would urge anyone who knows anything about the theft to contact the police."

Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to contact Grampian Police on 0845 600 5 700 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 if they wish to remain anonymous.