Cemeteries are left like 'skating rinks'

The Larne Times has been contacted by a number of angry residents who said their plans to visit the graves of loved ones over the Christmas period were severely hampered by icy conditions underfoot.

Churchill Road man Greggory Murray said Larne cemetery had ice “about an inch thick” on Christmas Day. “Like many other ratepayers, I wanted to pay my respects at my dad and grandparents’ graves. I found that all the paths were like a skating rink,” he said.

Mr Murray said he was unable reach either of graves because it was simply too dangerous.

Another Craigyhill resident claimed he had to assist three elderly visitors who had slipped on ice at Larne Cemetery.

“Surely it is the responsibility of the council to ensure it is gritted and passable for those attending the graves of loved ones?” he asked.

A Glenarm man said the village cemetery was equally hazardous.

“I took my mother there just before Christmas to visit a family grave and the paths were atrocious. It was lucky neither of us fell on the ice,” he said.

Larne Council commented: “The council has today been made aware of concerns raised by members of the public with the Larne Times in relation to the gritting of pathways at council cemeteries.

“The matter is being addressed by council officers, who have advised that gritting of cemetery paths is a service they make every effort to deliver and that the complaints raised will be investigated.”

See page 12