‘Free-for-all’ and ‘crime wave’ at town cemetery sparks urgent talks

COUNCILLORS are demanding urgent action after thefts, damage and contractor issues at Cullompton cemetery sparked serious concerns over security.

- by LEWIS CLARKE

There are security and contractor parking issues at Cullompton Cemetery

Tensions came to a head during a town council meeting as the concerns were raised.

Former police officer, councillor Mike Thompson, was worried about security as there was a “crime wave” affecting the cemetery, and asked that it be discussed urgently.

Town clerk Dan Ledger said theft and damage had already cost an estimated £7,500, and that thieves almost stole a mower. He warned that Axminster Town Council had recently suffered losses of up to £50,000 through theft at its cemetery.

Cllr Thompson requested a dedicated meeting to review security measures:

“There are several I can raise,’ he said. “I think we've got to look at alot of facts.”