A campaign has been launched to install security cameras at a cemetery repeatedly targeted by vandals.

Decorator Matthew Steele is demanding action after the grave of his eight-month-old niece was desecrated.

The white marble memorial has been damaged several times since Kayleigh Bennett died from multiple organ failure 14 years ago.

Since then, five headstones have been smashed or stolen and angels and other ornaments on the grave at Hove Cemetery have also been destroyed.

The latest blow for Kayleigh's family came on October 25, on what would have been her 15th birthday.

An angel at the head of the grave had been smashed and other objects had been scattered by vandals.

Kayleigh's mother, Elaine Bennett, of The Finches, Shoreham, said: "We come here at Christmas, on Kayleigh's birthday and other special occasions.

"Almost every time we find her grave has been vandalised. It is very upsetting.

"Other graves have also been vandalised and we think teenagers who gather here to drink are responsible.

"There used to be a warden here but he went a few years ago because there was not enough money and since then things have got worse.

"We have had to replace five headstones but the cost is not as important as the upset it causes the family."

Mr Steele, of Millers Road, Brighton, is launching a petition to have security cameras installed to act as a deterrent.

He said: "It is not just Kayleigh. If you look around the cemetery, there are lots of graves which have been vandalised.

"I don't know how much it would cost to pay for the cameras but the staff say they will back us all the way.

"If it comes to it, my friends and I are prepared to raise the money ourselves with sponsored events.

"For now, I would like to hear from as many people as possible who are prepared to sign a petition supporting the cameras."

A council spokesman said: "Unfortunately, people do report thefts of plants or other items from graves, which is extremely sad.

"However, to put CCTV cameras in Hove cemetery is not practical.

"The cemetery covers about 50 acres, which would mean the council would have to install at least 30 cameras, plus staff to monitor them.

"Even then, there would be no guarantee of catching the culprits.

"What we are doing is blocking up the pedestrian entrance at the most isolated end of the cemetery.

"Hopefully, that should have a deterrent effect as there is an occupied building on the other side."

Kayleigh died from a rare condition known as Zellweger's syndrome, which affects cells in the liver, kidneys and brain.

There is no cure and babies affected usually die within six months of the condition being detected.

Mr Steele can be contacted by phoning 01273 232857.