Tain is in shock in the wake of vandalism which has extensively damaged 12 gravestones at the town’s Old Cemetery.
Police are urging anyone with information to make contact.
The headstones were pushed over or had parts broken off.
The attack is believed to have happened sometime between March 19 and Monday this week.
While the financial cost of the damage is still to be established, locals have been horrified by the insensitivity of the crime.
Tain councillor and local funeral director Alasdair Rhind said: “It’s despicable that this has happened. I hope every effort will be made by someone who knows who did to take the necessary action and report it to the police.
His son Jack, a partner in the family business, added: “It’s very sad to think there are people around who get their kicks out of not only causing so much damage but also so much distress to others.
“I would be devastated if I came down to put flowers on the grave of someone who meant a lot to me only to find a scene like this.”
The Rhinds recalled a similar incident at the same spot many years ago.
Ross and Cromarty area police inspector Nicola MacKenzie said: “We are treating this incident as a deliberate and very sad act of vandalism to the headstones, some of which are very old but, regardless, they mark the resting places of family members and loved ones.
“We would appeal to local residents who have witnessed any suspicious behaviour or have any information on the incident to make contact with police on 101 or, if you wish to remain anonymous, via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”