Mid Ulster Council announces reopening of its cemeteries

It follows the decision by the Northern Ireland Executive to reopen graveyards during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Mid Ulster, along with other local authorities, closed its cemeteries to the public in March when the lockdown measures were announced.

A Council spokesperson said: "All visitors to our cemeteries are asked to respect social distancing guidance, as well as any temporary access restrictions to certain sections of a cemetery which may be required from time to time to ensure we are able to maintain social distancing during a burial service or essential maintenance work."

Ulster Unionist Councillor Trevor Wilson, who called for the cemeteries to be reopened earlier in the week, welcomed the news.

"It should be stressed that it is for visiting graves only and that all social distancing rules must be obeyed," he said.

"We will be asking all visitors to respect social distancing guidelines and signage will be erected to that effect."

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