A mother has said she feels "heartbroken and violated" after a memorial bench for her son was targeted by vandals.

Tracey Squires son Daniel died in hospital after he was struck by a van while cycling home near Ringwould on the Dover to Deal road, in September 2013.

Earlier this month, his family unveiled a memorial bench which was installed by the National Trust on the White Cliffs of Dover in St Margarets, days before what would have been his 24th birthday.

His parents Tracey and Symon read a letter on the day it was revealed, before burying it in the ground along with some of Daniel's possessions.

Now, vandals have targeted the solid oak seating place, which had a D carved into the side, tarnishing it with black spray paint.

Mrs Squires has said the graffiti has completely ruined what was a sacred place for her and her family.

She said: "I feel violated. Some of my son's most beloved things were in there. I feel completely crushed.

"What was a loving place now feels trashed."

Mrs Squires partner had gone for a walk earlier today and saw the graffiti on the bench, before telling her later that day when he picked her up.

"They may as well have just stamped on his grave - that's how it feels." - Tracey Squire

"It wasn't there on Saturday, and it looks fresh," the mother-of-two added.

"I'm just gutted someone would do this. I can't tell you how I feel. We've been visiting it a lot recently as its a peaceful place for us, but not anymore.

"They may as well have just stamped on his grave - that's how it feels."

Mrs Squires has been inundated with positive comments from the community who have offered to help her remove the paint, but she is waiting to hear from the National Trust and have a professional assess the damage.

The family have experienced similar circumstances before, when a sign that was erected where Daniel was hit by the van, urging people to stop texting and driving, was removed soon after.

Another memorial bench in the same area was also vandalised.

Police spokesman Martin Very said: "Officers are investigating graffiti written on two memorial benches in Granville Road, St Margarets Bay between Saturday June 1 and Wednesday June 5."

Anybody with information can call police on 01843 222289 quoting reference 5-1107.

Alternatively, call the independent charity, Crimestoppers in Kent, anonymously, on 0800 555111.

Read more: All the latest news from Deal