Reports of vandalism as cemetery reopens – but no damage discovered

Bridgend County Borough Council has completed a full inspection of Sarn Cemetery after claims emerged on social media that up to 30 graves had been damaged by vandals.

However, staff who carried out the inspection could find no evidence that vandalism had actually taken place at the site.

The cemetery reopened this week after a period of closure to protect public safety and limit potential exposure to the Covid-19 coronavirus.

While our staff made a thorough inspection of Sarn Cemetery, there was no evidence of deliberate vandalism having taken place there. A few defects were noted, such as a damaged vase and part of the site fencing which needs some attention to be able to maintain security. However, no damage had been caused to any memorials or grave headstones.

We’ll be monitoring the situation closely and will be addressing any defects that have been identified as part of our planned maintenance for the site. In the meantime, I cannot emphasise strongly enough how important it is to maintain social distancing for anyone who is planning on visiting the site.

Attendance at graveside funerals continues to be strictly limited to a maximum of 10 close family members while the pandemic is in effect.

Councillor Richard Young, Cabinet Member for Communities