Gravestone repairs to begin

A PROJECT to make sure cemeteries across Midlothian are safe to visit is to be carried out in January.

Weather damage can cause headstones to become unstable and the age of some of the memorials can also be an issue.

Midlothian Council will carry out a survey to identify headstones that are no longer secure and pose a potential hazard to visitors, before notifying relatives and starting work.

Work has been completed at two cemeteries and will soon start at Newbattle Cemetery.

Councillor Wilma Chalmers, cabinet member for commercial operations, said: "We're making cemeteries more safe for those grieving for loved ones."