PEOPLE with plots in the garden of remembrance at St Michael's Church, in Burtonwood, are urged to contact officials before repair work begins.

The work will correct movement at ground level and a new path will be laid between the plots, but caskets will be left undisturbed.

The Reverend Russ Naylor, vicar of the Burtonwood church, is inviting people to clear the plots, except for the memorial stone, while the work takes place.

Anything not removed will be stored by the church.

Rev Naylor said: "We'd like to speak to people about the work and also the new regulations, which we hope will make things a little easier for everyone.

"We are modifying our rules in relation to leaving flowers in the garden.

"Flowers will be permitted at any time throughout the year, instead of only three times as a year, as currently happens."

Veronica Hancock, church warden, said: "We have written to everyone who owns a plot but don't know if we have their up-to-date addresses. Anyone who hasn't heard from us should get in touch with me.

"We will do our utmost to minimise disruption in the churchyard while this important work is being carried out."

The deadline for removal of items is April 30.

Work is expected to take two weeks and will be followed by a service in the garden of remembrance on May 22, at 3pm.

Mrs Hancock can be contacted on 292559.