There is concern in Cockfield over the condition of the village cemetery.
Due to soil subsidence, a significant number of headstones in the cemetery are leaning at an angle while a number have fallen over.
It is claimed that the cause of the subsidence is down to moles.
A resident, who asked not to be named, contacted the Mercury and said: “I rang the council and told them about the headstones in the cemetery that are falling over.
“Two headstones belonging to my relatives have sunk down into the ground so that now you can’t even see plinths that they stand on.
“Over the years, moles have softened the soil and that’s causing the headstones to sink. The cemetery hasn’t been looked after properly in my view. Now they are saying that I’ve got to pay to have the stones lifted up.”
Responding to the concerns in Cockfield, Durham County Council’s neighbourhood protection manger, Ian Hoult, confirmed that the authority is aware of mole activity.
He said: “We recently received a report about possible mole activity at the cemetery and our team attended to investigate.
“During the visit, we did not find any signs of activity within the cemetery itself, but we will, of course, respond to any further reports should they arise.
“We appreciate how upsetting it can be for families if a loved one’s headstone is affected in any way.
“We work to keep our cemeteries well cared for, but some issues are unfortunately outside of our control.
“As is the case nationally, the responsibility for repairing individual headstones rests with families, but we will always do what we can to support and advise where needed.”
The headstone concerns come just days after Cockfield Parish Council urged the county council to address the “disgusting” potholes on the road between the cemetery and cattlegrid adjacent to the main road.
- What’s your view? Write a letter to the editor, [email protected]
