Following new guidance, issued by the Institute of Cemetery and Crematorium Management, Mid Devon District Council will be reopening cemeteries to the public from today.

Last week emergency legislation was brought in by Central Government instructing all burial grounds and crematoriums to be closed, as part of a host of new measures brought in in relation to the Coronavirus pandemic.

In line with this legislation Councils closed cemeteries to the public, except for burials.

However, after seeking clarification about the legislation new guidance has been released and MDDC is pleased it can now safely reopen both Tiverton and Crediton cemeteries, in line with the updated rules.

Andy Busby, Group Manager for Property Services, said: “The decision to close the cemeteries was something nobody wanted to do but we must follow the legislation set and all support the national effort to limit the spread of this virus. We know this decision affected many people and it was particularly saddening that we had to take this step at a time when we are all coping with such difficult circumstances. Many people got in touch with us, raising their concerns and we are pleased we can now support our communities in this way.”

Once the cemeteries reopen anyone visiting must abide by social distancing rules and no one should be attending the cemeteries if they are showing any symptoms of illness. Anyone in the cemetery should also avoid the use of shared equipment such as watering cans.