CAMPAIGNERS are calling for support against changes to a scheme to create a crematorium and funeral chapel in Ribble Valley.

Council chiefs approved the previous application on the former Calderstones Hospital graveyard on Mitton Road in Whalley back in October 2015.

However, a new application has been submitted to Ribble Valley Council by Buildings of Remembrance International Ltd (BORI) to vary conditions on the planning approval .

Concerned resident Mel Diack MBE, said "It is disappointing about the application on the garden of remembrance.

"The developers have been cutting it back to make way for the new drive for the crematorium and ploughing it up.

"There is some disagreement over where the graves are.

"We have four witnesses who have told us it is where they are cutting back, but it is sacred ground if people are buried there.

"These people have been laid to rest in peace and they won't be doing that if they are cutting through the land.

"The ground also does not accept water and when they put the development there will just run off into the culverts.

"It will also increase traffic in the area for up to 20 cars and where are they going to park. It is not a good entrance anyway.

"We are hoping that this decision can be put before full council again but we need people to come forward to the council with their concerns before August 30.

"I have been involved in fighting this for 10 years and a lot of grass has been growing - it looks like a jungle. "

A spokesman for BORI said: “An application process is underway and as responsible developers we take into account the views of local groups and follow statutory requirements at all times”.

Anyone who wants to register their concerns or find out more call Mel Diack on 01254 823012.