Calls for ban on cars in cemetery after graves are driven over

Mark Sherburn says his family has been left devastated after clear vehicle tyre tracks over the middle of the burial plot, and a number of adjacent plots at the Skinner Lane site.

On the first occasion, Mr Sherburn says it was a council vehicle that caused the damage, although Wakefield Council has denied this.

Days later a second vehicle went over the site with different tyre tracks.

Mr Sherburn, 46, said: “They left tyre tracks on my dad’s but they broke the concrete edging on the grave next to his.

“I contacted Wakefield Council but have heard nothing back from them.

“Cars are allowed down there as far I know but whoever has done this has had no regard.

“I was absolutely fuming when I first saw it and I’m still angry now, it’s really disrespectful. I can’t believe somebody would do that.

“I contacted the police they just put it down the anti-social behaviour.”

Mr Sherburn lost his father, James ‘Jim’ Sherburn in August last year at the age of 74.

Mark visits the site each week to keep it tidy. A headstone is yet to be placed on the grave.

“I’m glad it’s not been put in place yet, God knows what damage could have been done,” he added

“They need some bollards so cars can’t get through. The path is not wide enough for cars, they drive across grave sites on both sides.

There’s nothing that can be done about it now, but something need sot happen to prevent it happening again.”

Gary Blenkinsop, service director at Wakefield Council, said that he did not believe a council vehicle was involved and that erecting bollards would reduce the access for some who visit the cemetery.

He said: “We understand how upsetting it was for the family to have seen the damage caused to their loved one’s grave.

“We need to balance the security of the site with the needs of visitors and do not feel it would be practical at this time to put bollards up.

“By doing so, it may have an adverse effect on visitors, who have a disability or reduced mobility, and could also hinder the team’s ability to reach graves.”