VILLAGERS have hit out over the state of a Renfrewshire cemetery – claiming it is “disrespecting the dead.”

Discontent is growing over conditions at Lochwinnoch Cemetery, with pressure growing on Renfrewshire Council to take action.

Councillor Andy Doig said he has been inundated with complaints about overgrown pathways, with one elderly constituent tripping up during a visit to pay respects to a relative.

Last year, council chiefs pledged to invest £1million in cemeteries across the area but Councillor Doig wants to see Lochwinnoch moved up the waiting list.

He told The Gazette: “At the end of last year, I was informed that Lochwinnoch Cemetery was to get £30,000 worth of investment to bring it up to standard.

“That was very welcome but it is now over a year since the decision to invest was taken and I know many of my constituents are incensed about the state of Lochwinnoch Cemetery, as am I. To be honest, it is in such a state that it is nearly unfit for purpose.

“The whole purpose of cemeteries is to promote a culture of respectful remembrance so that families and friends can go and pay respect to their loved ones who rest there.

“This is very difficult when you can hardly distinguish the pathways from the grassed areas due to overgrown moss. Frankly, in dragging their feet on this sensitive matter, the council is showing disrespect to the dead.”

The Gazette understands local authority chiefs have held discussions with Lochwinnoch Community Council over the cemetery’s condition and have pledged to implement an action plan.

Community councillors have made clear their displeasure at the condition of the site and hope steps will be taken to improve it.

A Renfrewshire Council spokesperson said: “Providing a safe, welcoming place of rest for the families of those lost is extremely important and we are investing £1million in our cemeteries to make improvements for our residents.

“Lochwinnoch Cemetery will undergo road and path resurfacing works, repairs to the boundary wall and the repainting of fences, gates and railings in the coming weeks as part of the upgrades and this will ensure our communities have a fitting place to pay their respects.”