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Collapse-risk graves in churchyard fenced off

James Aldridge
LDRS
LDRS/Paul King Warning sign attached to orange net-style fencing with stone tomb in churchyard behindLDRS/Paul King
Plastic fencing has been wrapped around 14 graves in the churchyard found to be unstable

Graves in a Reading churchyard found unstable after falling into disrepair, have been fenced off over safety concerns.

Reading Borough Council said 14 graves at St Laurence Church in The Forbury had been deemed unstable after they failed its inspection tests.

The council said it had reported the unsafe graves to the Diocese of Oxford who would make any decision on future repairs.

Twelve tombs in the churchyard are Grade II listed.

LDRS/Paul King Orange net-style fencing around several stone tombs in churchyard with large office-style building in backgroundLDRS/Paul King
The graves have been sealed off for safety reasons by Reading Borough Council

Where known the owners of each grave - or living relatives of those buried - are usually contacted and asked to make any necessary repairs.

A council spokesperson said: "The council is responsible for inspecting memorials in churchyards located in the borough and reporting any that are found to be unsafe to the Diocese of Oxford.

"The council does not however hold responsibility for paying for subsequent repairs, which would normally be the responsibility of the grave owner or living relatives."

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