A COUNCIL has been accused of a ‘staggering u-turn’ over the presence of a Christian cross in its crematorium chapel.

On Tuesday, Hyndburn’s cemeteries boss Ken Moss said the religious symbol would only be available for funerals if requested by organisers.

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Yesterday, after his comments were quoted in the Lancashire Telegraph, he issued a revised statement saying a free-standing cross would be present in the chapel at Accrington Cemetery unless families asked for its removal during a service.

Councillor Moss said his original statement was open to ‘misinterpretation’ and yesterday’s replacement was intended to clarify the position.

Former Tory group leader on Hyndburn Council Peter Britcliffe, who originally raised the matter, said: “This is not a clarification. It is staggering u-turn.”

Bishop of Burnley Philip North welcomed yesterday’s statement as “a sensible decision”.

During a refurbishment earlier this year at the Burnley Road chapel run by Hyndburn Council, a large wooden cross fixed to the wall was taken down.

Cllr Britcliffe was told in future a free-standing version of the symbol would only be available for funerals at the request of families wanting a Christian service.

Asked by the Lancashire Telegraph if this was true, Cllr Moss issued a statement which said: “To cater for those families with religious beliefs the crematorium has a cross and crucifix available, which can be put up for services and taken down when not needed.

“Whilst this is a change at Accrington crematorium, it is usual industry practice.”

Yesterday he issued an amended statement which said instead: “To cater for those families with religious beliefs the crematorium has a cross and crucifix in place, which can be taken down when not needed.

“While this is a change at Accrington crematorium it is normal practice across crematoria.”

Cllr Moss said: “I take full responsibility for this misunderstanding.

“My original statement could be misinterpreted.

“We now have a free standing cross which can be removed at the request of funeral organisers.

“It remains in the chapel when it is empty.”

Cllr Britcliffe said: “This is a complete change of position by the council in just 24 hours following pressure from the public and the Lancashire Telegraph.

“I am glad common sense has prevailed and Cllr Moss has changed his mind.

Bishop Philip said: “This is a sensible decision that reflects the wishes of many people who find comfort in the cross.”