Unsafe gravestones to be repaired

Hundreds of gravestones laid flat over fears they could topple over and injure visitors are to be repaired.

Four years ago Easington Council carried out safety checks in its eight churchyards and many stones failed tests with a load-bearing device.

Hundreds failed the safety test and were laid flat with the inscription visible where possible.

Now they are to be repaired, beginning with 300 gravestones at St Saviour's Churchyard, in Shotton.

George Patterson, District of Easington Council's executive member for liveability, said: "Having listened to residents concerns, the council took the decision to fix upright any memorials laid flat during its safety works, and we are now hoping to have this work completed by the summer."