CREMATED remains of loved ones have been ploughed through and memorials tossed aside by workman in Southampton, claim mourners.

They say part of the Southampton Crematorium site has been “desecrated” by workers carrying out improvement works to a neighbouring wood.

Now there are calls for a investigation in the work which has been defended by Southampton City Council.

Taxi driver Rod Flood, 63, from Lordshill said his parent’s site had been “vandalised” by a digger path.

He added: “It just makes me feel so gutted.

“In the same area there are many other family members. One being a seven-week-old baby.”

Mr Flood spoke after visiting the resting place of parents Williamena and Joseph.

He said: “It has been vandalised.

I really do think it is disgusting.

“A lot of people will be shocked by what has happened.”

Mr Flood spoke of seeing an elderly man break down in tears after findings his two small yellow flowers, laid regularly in memory of his wife, crushed and broken.

Mike Frampton, 55, from Harefield, found logs over the plot belonging to his mum, Rose Chance, said: “It was diabolical and heartbreaking for me.”

Councillor Daniel Fitzhenry, Cabinet member for Environment and Transport, said: “There was a genuine need to address the condition and appearance of the wooded area next to the crematorium.

“We understand the sensitivities in these circumstances, and the concerns of members of public.

“What we’re trying to do is make it more attractive and better managed for everyone’s benefit.

“We have received many comments and complaints from members of public asking us to address this area to return it to a good state befitting of its surroundings, and that is what we are doing.

“We will ensure the work is being carried out as sensitively as possible.”

But Coxford Councillor Don Thomas said: “I am sickened I have asked for a full investigation.

This is totally unacceptable and borders on vandalism, what’s been described is so disrespectful.”