Castletown eye sore

**cptdodger** · 25-Oct-16, 18:50

Originally Posted by hells_belle

was up at cemetary today,the very top cemetary untouched,between trees that have fallen and broken grave stones and ivy covering stones got to take my hat of to council,what an absolute joke.

Although onespace could have put it a bit nicer he is right. If you have a look at this it is basically saying as follows -

It also recommended that the following matters should be included in regulations:

Memorial masons operating in cemeteries or churchyards (both local authority and private) should be able to show that they have proper training, certificates and accreditation for both business and fixers. At present the national body the National Association of Memorial Masons ( NAMM), supports the British Register of Accredited Memorial Masons ( BRAMM). However, the Government acknowledges that other bodies that achieve necessary accreditation in fixing and fitting memorials could also be included in any future regulations if they can demonstrate the necessary quality controls and guarantee their workmanship.

That memorial masons supply a minimum 10 year guarantee for materials and fixing.

That there are adequate arrangements to ensure that after the guarantee period of 10 years has elapsed regular checks are made as to the safety of memorials, and that the cost of such checks would be the responsibility of the owners.

That owners are encouraged to take out insurance to protect their property.

That it is clearly stated that all responsibility for memorials / headstones is a matter for the person/s holding the exclusive right to erect a memorial.

I found that information on here - http://www.gov.scot/Publications/2010/01/26131024/5 this is a consultation paper which I think dates back to 2010, so whether it's in force now or not I don't know. If I were you I would contact your MP to clarify the situation.

I know where I come from some of our cemeteries are in a right state, due to erosion, in some cases flooding (trust me, that's not pleasant) and sadly vandalism. Whether the headstones are one or one hundred years old, it is still distressing to see broken and fallen headstones when visiting friends and families.

**silkie** · 25-Oct-16, 20:18

Just to clear up a few facts about Olrig cemetery and the request to tidy up the middle cemetery.Not the old old one)
Work started about a week ago and is progressing well and credit must be given to the workmen who have done an excellent job by already removing all the offending ivy from the outside wall This has made a big difference to see all the grave stones again, and work is to continue with the rest as requested so hope there is no more negatives posted as we must remember money is scarce and a good job is being made.

**onespace** · 25-Oct-16, 21:35

The middle and new cemeteries are indeed looking good - I was in them on Sunday. And the old one is fine too - it is a very old cemetery and it looks the part. So whoever is looking after ALL of them is doing a grand job.

It's therefore a shame that Castletown's greatest busy-body has to cast her aspersions at the wrong people over a non-problem as usual.