Safety inspections at Cornwall cemeteries begin

St Agnes Parish Council said some memorials or headstones found to be unsafe could be cordoned off

Safety inspections will be carried out at cemeteries in part of Cornwall starting from Saturday.

St Agnes Parish Council said it is due to its legal requirement to ensure the safety of people who visit its cemeteries in St Agnes and Mount Hawke as well as the Garden of Rest in St Agnes.

The council said memorials or headstones found to be unsafe would either be cordoned off, provided with a temporary support or laid flat.

A spokesperson for the council said it was mindful not to "cause any undue stress or concern" to people who own the graves at the sites being inspected.

They said some cordons may be in place for up to a year and next of kin or closest living family members will be informed of any works needed.

The surveying is due to start on Saturday and anyone who wishes to find out more information is asked to contact the council's burials and allotment officer.