A PUBLIC consultation on how council-run cemeteries are operated has been launched.

It opened on Wednesday, May 30, for four weeks and is available on East Ayrshire Council’s website or their Kilmarnock headquarters.

Normally, reviews and updates of the Cemetery Management Rules take place every 10 years with any changes made available for public consultation.

However, due to the implementation of the Burial and Cremation (Scotland) Act 2016, it has been 12 years since this happened.

Councillor Elena Whitham, cabinet member for housing and communities said: “We are seeking your views on the proposed Cemetery Management Rules for the next 10 years. These rules are important to ensure our cemeteries run smoothly, are respected by visitors and maintained to a consistently high standard.

“I would ask that you take a bit of time to have a look at the rules and provide any feedback you may have.”

East Ayrshire Council is responsible for 45 cemeteries and churchyards with maintenance carried out by the Outdoor Amenities team.

Provide feedback by June 27, by e-mail to bereavementservices@east-ayrshire.gov.uk or write to Bob McCulloch, Acting Head of Housing and Communities, Council HQ, London Road, Kilmarnock, KA3 7BU.