Graves that are crumbling at a churchyard in Reading town centre have been sealed off for safety reasons.
The graveyard at St Laurence Church in The Forbury is a private burial place for former residents of the town.
The graveyard contains the final resting place of Henry West, who died aged 24 after a whirlwind hit Reading in 1840.
Photos show graves being cordoned off, with a notice issued by Reading Borough Council stating the memorials have failed inspection tests and have been deemed unstable.
It’s understood that 14 graves have been sealed off in this way.
Although the council has a responsibility to cordon off any graves that are unstable, the responsibility for maintaining the graves typically lies with their owners and family members.
A spokesperson explained: “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.
“Some graves at St Laurence Churchyard were found to be unsafe and have been cordoned off pending notification to the Diocese and any decision on future repairs.
“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.”
This information has been confirmed by the Church of England Diocese of Oxford which runs the church.
The graveyard is at capacity and is not open for new burials.
