CEMETERIES in Darwen are set to be given a new lease of life.

The town's three burial sites in Bolton Road are included in a council report outlining how they are to be maintained and revamped.

The three have been included in an action plan for cemeteries across the borough which is likely to cost up to £79,000.

Families and grave holders affected have been told of the improvement programme by Blackburn with Darwen Council.

A spokesman said: "Darwen Old Cemetery has seen a start to returning to a lawned cemetery, as areas with older graves have had the grave edges and surrounds removed to facilitate a more pleasant environment, which is also easier to maintain.

"It is proposed to continue with the improvement one step at time, with relevant grave holders and families being consulted prior to any work being undertaken."

And Darwen New Cemetery which is adjacent to Darwen Old Cemetery, has also been inspected by Blackburn with Darwen Council officers. Similar improvements are being made and a road surface has been inspected and passed.

Darwen Eastern Cemetery, on the opposite side of Bolton Road, is where new burials take place in Darwen. Only burials at family graves and plots now take place in Darwen Old and New cemeteries

The spokesman added: "The infrastructure of this cemetery requires a small amount of restoration or road surfaces, the cost of which will be highlighted over the next month."

And over an 18-month period a team will also be inspecting the safety of headstones and making any which are unstable safe.

"The council provides access to its cemeteries and encourages attendance. Consultation has taken place to highlight the issues contained in the report", the council spokesman added.

The moves to maintain the cemeteries follow consultation between the clergy, the Muslim Burial Committee, funeral directors and stonemasons.