Dog fouling and abuse at cemetery 'deeply upsetting'

Visitors to a cemetery are being told to show respect and consideration, following complaints of abuse, threatening behaviour and dogs urinating and fouling on memorials.

Gloucester City Council said there had been a significant increase in complaints from families visiting the graves of loved ones at Gloucester Old Cemetery, also known as Tredworth Road Cemetery.

Cemetery staff have also received reports of visitors feeling intimidated by dogs running off-lead, particularly larger breeds that are not being kept under control.

Declan Wilson, deputy leader and cabinet member for resources, said the situation was "deeply upsetting".

Signs have been installed throughout the cemetery reminding visitors that dogs must be kept on leads, but the council said the signs have repeatedly been vandalised with black spray paint.

"Gloucester Old Cemetery should be a place of dignity, respect and quiet reflection for those who have lost loved ones", Wilson said.

"It is heartbreaking to hear from families who arrive to pay their respects only to find graves that have been fouled or damaged by irresponsible behaviour. No one should have to experience that.

"A small number of individuals are continuing to ignore the rules, causing distress to others and showing a lack of respect for the cemetery, the bereaved, and those who work to maintain the grounds."

Carly Hughes, bereavement services manager at the council, asked people visiting the cemetery to "consider the impact their actions can have on others".

"Every gravestone represents a person who was loved and is missed. Every grave belongs to a family who may be carrying a lifetime of grief", Hughes said.

The council is also working with Gloucestershire Police to address concerns about anti-social behaviour within the cemetery.

Visitors who experience abuse, threatening behaviour or who witness anti-social behaviour are being asked to report incidents to the police.

Follow BBC Gloucestershire on Facebook, X and Instagram. Send your story ideas to us on email or via WhatsApp on 0800 313 4630.