INSPECTIONS of six of Pendle's cemeteries will begin on January 7 to ensure there are no unstable gravestones which could be potential hazards. Pendle Council carry out yearly checks of the monuments and gravestones to ensure no-one is injured because of loose stones.

Notices have been put up on at council-run cemeteries in Barnoldswick, Earby, Salterforth, Barrowford, Colne and Nelson to inform relatives that an inspection is due.

The council said the inspections had been arranged after Christmas out of sensitivity to the many people who pay their respects to loved ones at this time of year.

Parks and cemeteries manager Colin Patten said: "If we find any memorials which are unsafe we will have to lower them to the ground immediately and then endeavour to contact the grave owner to let them know the situation.

"I know before we start there will be some unsafe through natural wear and tear so we will go about making them safer in a sympathetic way to relatives.

"If anyone would like to contact us to discuss the condition of their memorial they are very welcome to ring me on 01282 661600.