A lack of upkeep for Tenby New Cemetery has been labelled a ‘disgrace’ by a local county councillor.

County councillor for Tenby’s North ward, Cllr Michael Williams has written to Tenby Town Council asking who is responsible for maintaining the garden of remembrance in Tenby new cemetery - the area where ashes are laid to rest.

One of Tenby Town Council’s primary responsibilities is for the management of the New Cemetery which is located on Slippery Back, and all associated Burial Records.

“I regret to say that this area is a disgrace, and I am unable to see any maintenance over a number of years,” said Cllr Williams.

“It is very unfortunate that to place flowers on certain areas one has to walk over or stand on commemorative stones. The area possibly needs a re-design in order to restore a degree of dignity, or at the very least a thorough clean.

“It is surely a basic duty of Tenby Town Council to look after its deceased in an area that it is directly responsible for.

“I would suggest money might be far better spent on basic essentials rather than unnecessary new offices!” he added.

Cllr Williams said that in response to his correspondence, the Town Clerk flagged-up a number of issues relating to this area, that he had now raised with the contractor employed by the Town Council to look at.

At a recent meeting of the Town Council, the risk of running out of space for burial of ashes at the Cemetery was highlighted.

The Clerk explained that work had commenced and suggested a site meeting of the Cemetery management sub-committee to have a look what had been done.

Councillors would also be able to look at the condition of one of the large popular trees which was causing the grounds maintenance contractor concern.