Man detained after James Bulger's grave vandalised

A man has been detained under the Mental Health Act after the grave of murdered Merseyside toddler James Bulger was vandalised.

Two cherub statues next to the two-year-old boy's headstone were damaged at Kirkdale Cemetery in Liverpool in April - the second time the memorial had been vandalised within six weeks.

Police said a 78-year-old man from the Lancashire area had been arrested on suspicion of criminal damage and theft and was later detained under the Mental Health Act. He remains at a mental health hospital.

James was taken from his mother in February 1993 at a shopping centre in Bootle by Jon Venables and Robert Thompson - then both aged 10 - who tortured and killed him.

Members of the public raised more than £23,000 for the family after the vandalism.

Speaking after the first incident, James's mother Denise Fergus said she felt "heartbreak" over the destruction.

Det Insp Jemma Berry said: "The 78-year-old man was detained under Section 3 of the Mental Health Act 1983 under compulsory detention.

"Our investigation has now concluded and officers will be informed of any developments or consideration for discharge.

"During the investigation detectives established that several graves were targeted within Kirkdale Cemetery.

"Stolen ornaments from gravestones were also recovered by our officers during the investigation and have now been returned to the rightful families.

"We understand this incident would have caused concern for the local community and I hope members of the public feel reassured by this decision.

"I would ask anyone with concerns to speak to one of our officers or contact their local police station.

"I would also like to take this opportunity to thank James's family and the other families whose gravestones were damaged for their ongoing support throughout our investigation."

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