Sir,
Bwlchgwynt Baptist Chapel at Ciffig, built in 1756, is up for auction by John Francis, Carmarthen, on September 26.
It seems that some 'untended graves' may be reclaimed to make a garden. The agent informs me that:
'The extractions (of graves) are subject to a public notice in the local newspaper which should appear twice. Objections would not allow removal'. This means that if you have family graves there, but don't see the notice in the papers (which one I don't know) then there is a likelihood of the graves being 'reclaimed', as they put it - quite a shock when you next visit.
I'm writing this to draw it to everyone's attention. So if you want to safeguard your family graves - make sure you keep an eye out in the local press and then write to object, because it will probably be a small entry in the Public Notice section, along with items on roadworks etc. Alternatively, write to the estate agents now - voicing your objections.
The agent continued: 'The graves vary in age and the removal would depend a little on this. The older they are, then the less likelihood of having relatives who would object. There will be no further burials after the chapel is sold'.
So don't wait until it's too late - if you have family there, make sure your voices are heard.
Ruth Roberts, Sandy Grove, Llanteg.