A mourner claims disrespectful villagers have turned a graveyard into a “quagmire” by using it as a shortcut.

Andy Dixey also said dogs are allowed to roam free in the churchyard at St John the Baptist Church, off The Street, Pebmarsh, and have left paw prints on graves and damaged plant pots.

Mr Dixey said: “Yes it’s an open space, but it’s not a public footpath."

Revd Gay Ellis said: “The churchyard is an area open to the public for their use and we trust they will use it in an appropriate manner, but obviously the long period of wet weather has affected ground conditions.
 

“No-one has approached me with specific concerns but if they would like to contact me I will discuss any issues they raise.”

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