How 'warm, wet weather' and a staff shortage have left city in the long grass

“UNSEASONABLY warm and wet weather” and staff shortages have led to untidy and overgrown grass at Derby's biggest cemetery and in an several areas across the city.

- By SOPHIE FAGONE BUSCIMESE

Visitors to Nottingham Road Cemetery in Chaddesden reported they were unable to get to some of the graves due to the knee-high grass which has started to cover the tombstones.

“This cannot be the way we remember loved ones,” said councillor Steve Hassall.

“I do not believe this is an acceptable standard for a place where people come to remember and pay their respects to loved ones.

“Cemeteries should be places of dignity, reflection and respect. Residents should not have to battle through long grass to visit the graves of family members?”

He added that some visitors had to cut their own path to access a grave and lay flowers.

In Allestree, Oakwood and Mickleover, residents have also voiced concerns about long grass on verges, open spaces and across neighbourhoods.