A CAMPAIGN is being launched to raise funds to repair graves at a Torfaen cemetery which was attacked by vandals - causing £100,000 worth of damage.

Around 40 graves were attacked in Varteg cemetery in June, including that of Gunner Abraham Evans, a Rorke's Drift hero, buried in 1915.

Crosses and gravestones were toppled and smashed to pieces, even grave coverings were completely destroyed.

The Argus revealed how the scene left local vicar, the Rev Ken Morgan, in tears.

Now, a group known as the Keynsham Lighthorse have joined forces with Gunner Evans' family, setting up a fund to pay for repairs to his grave.

And the hero's grandson, Tom Roberts, has vowed to give any cash left over to The Friends of Varteg Cemetery, to benefit some of the other graves targeted.

The KLH are a dedicated band of historical enthusiasts who locate memorials to those involved in the Anglo Zulu War of 1879. Members were involved in the special commemorative service at Gunner Evans' grave in November 2001, and were shocked to read our report that his new headstone had been defaced.

Details of the vandalism were posted on the organisation's website, prompting cash pledges from across the country to go towards the repair of Gunner Evans' grave.

His grandson, Mr Roberts, 73, from Newport, said his first reaction had been despair.

"At first I wondered why we had bothered putting a new stone up, I thought we should have left him in peace," he said.

"Then when the offer of help came through I thought, is there any point, when there are people like that around?"

Now, both he and Richard Roynon, the chairman of the Friends of Varteg Cemetery, say they feel more positive and are determined to do what they can for the cemetery.

"I've been asked who the most important person in the cemetery is, and I say, all of them," said Mr Roynon.

Police have confirmed their inquiries are ongoing, but as yet no arrests have been made. A spokesman said: "We are appealing for information on what is a very distressing incident. All calls will be dealt with in the strictest confidence."

Call PC 598 Bob Davies, at Pontypool police station, on 01495 764711.

*If you want to contribute to the fund, send your donation to Mr Richard Roynon, 20 Benton Villas, Talywain, Torfaen, NP4 7LD. Cheques should be made payable to Gunner Evans Memorial Fund.