Jimmy Savile’s headstone removed from his grave
The headstone on Sir Jimmy Savile’s grave in Scarborough has been removed following a request from his family that it be taken away “out of respect for public opinion”.
Sir Jimmy’s family said in a statement that they wanted the headstone removed in order to preserve the “dignity and sanctity” of Woodlands Cemetery, where the former radio DJ and television presenter was buried last year.
“The family members are deeply aware of the impact that the stone remaining there could have on the dignity and sanctity of the cemetery,” a statement said.
“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.”
Work to dismantle the headstone, which listed Sir Jimmy’s achievements, took place shortly after midnight, Scarborough Council said.
Read Jon Snow's blog: Savile provokes dark memories, but also hope
The decision follows a number of memorials to Sir Jimmy already having been removed, including an inscription on the wall at Leeds Civic Hall in recognition of his charity work, and a street sign. A plaque outside his home has been defaced.
National scale
Yesterday, the Metropolitan Police said it was investigating 25 lines of inquiry and as many as 25 victims in relation to sexual abuse allegations levelled at Sir Jimmy.
Commander Peter Spindler, head of specialist crime investigations at Scotland Yard, said the allegations span four decades, the earliest of which dates back to 1959.
“We have formally recorded eight criminal allegations against Savile,” he said. “Two of those are rape, six of indecent assault.
“These are primarily against girls in their mid-teens, so between 13 and 16, and it spans four decades of abuse. The pattern of his offending behaviour does appear to be on a national scale.”
A spokesman for Scotland Yard said at least five forces – the Met, Surrey, Sussex, Northamptonshire and Jersey – are investigating allegations.