Concerns raised over state of Moray cemetery

MORAY Council has apologised over delayed maintenance within a Moray cemetery.

Former Burghead resident Ray Bannerman was left shocked at the state of the town's graveyard during a recent visit.

Mr Bannerman, who now lives in Inverness, said: "On visiting Burghead cemetery yesterday to tend relatives graves, I was shocked at the disgraceful state of the graveyard.

"All the monuments are covered in gull mess. Weeds are taking over and although the grass has been cut after a fashion it is just left lying. Edges overgrown.

"At least one monument was lying flat after it would seem to have been pushed over by bush roots."

He continued: "I cannot ever remember the cemetery being in that state. The people of Burghead deserve more from the council, especially when you consider the lengths they go to to provide such a lovely display of flowers in the town itself, which is enjoyed by all who visit."

The local authority said recent weather conditions were resulting in extra work.

A spokesperson said: "Unfortunately we are running slightly behind with our grass cutting and maintenance within cemeteries; this is partly due to staffing but also the warm and wet weather conditions we’re experiencing, which provides excellent growing conditions for grass and weeds.

"We apologise the standard of the cemetery did not meet expectations."

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