MORE than 1,500 gravestones tested in Caerphilly county borough over the past six months were either unsafe or needed attention, council chiefs say.

The council's safety inspection programme began in January 2002 and so far Abercarn, Rhymney, Brithdir and Gelligaer cemeteries have been inspected.

Councillor Paul Ford said: "We recognise that this is a very sensitive issue and we will carry out our work in a sympathetic and respectful manner.

"However, safety must be our main priority and we have a duty to protect the public, therefore we believe that this work is essential and I would like to thank local people for their patience and understanding."

Since January 2003, more than 10,000 memorials have been inspected and over 15% were found to be in need of attention.

The inspection of memorials is continuing this week, at Risca's old cemetery in Cromwell Road.

Over the past decade several accidents and some fatalities have occurred in churchyards and cemeteries across the UK as a result of unsafe memorials.

All councils are now required to carry out health and safety surveys in their municipal cemeteries to inspect and identify monuments that are unstable and could pose a danger.

In other parts of Gwent, like Caldicot and Abergavenny, the 'topple' testing of gravestones has provoked a public outcry.

Caerphilly council manages ten municipal cemeteries, with about 25,000 memorials.

Dangerous or unsafe memorials are identified with a special yellow band to warn people of the potential danger. Measures are then taken to contact family members so they can make the monument safe.

The inspection programme has just begun at Risca old cemetery and the council is keen to let people know why these actions are being taken.

For further information contact bereavement services on 01495 235225 or 01495 235189.