Some grave stones could be laid down as part of safety works scheduled for a cemetery.

Loughton Town Council will carry out memorial safety testing in Loughton Cemetery from October 29.

Following a visual inspection and hand test, unsafe memorials will either be temporarily secured or, if it is an immediate hazard, laid down.

A spokesperson said: "Loughton Town Council understands that the memorial safety programme may cause concern to grave owners, relatives and bereaved people, and wishes to give reassurance

that the testing will be carried out respectfully and within national guidelines.

"Memorials are a lasting tribute to our loved ones and through careful management we will work with you to ensure the cemetery is a safe place to visit for years to come.

"A letter will be sent to the grave owner at the address we have in our registers.

"Unfortunately we may be unable to make contact with all grave owners."

Those with concerns about the safety of their memorial should contact Pippa Bryce, burial clerk at Loughton Town Council, on contact@loughton-tc.gov.uk or 020 8508 4200.