Visitors to Pleasington Cemetery and Crematorium have been warned to expect possible disruption today (April 23) ahead of two large burials.

The automatic barrier near the top of the site will be closed from 3pm, due to “two large burials” which are set to take place at 4pm and 5.30pm. This is closed to vehicles.

The remainder of the site will be open to vehicles.

All areas of the cemeteries are fully open and can be accessed on foot.

The barrier closure is due to previous issues with the number of vehicles entering the area when large burials take place.

The council says this is to ensure grieving families are given the greatest amount of respect during the burials.

If anyone has issues regarding this update they have been asked to contact the council’s bereavement team.

A spokesperson for Blackburn with Darwen Cemeteries and Crematorium said: “Today, the barrier at Pleasington extension will be closed from 3pm due to two large attended burials due to take place at 4pm and 5.30pm.

“We want to reassure you that all areas of the cemeteries are fully open however we need to close the barrier to the Pleasington extension specifically as we have had issues with the number of vehicles accessing this area when there are burials taking place.

“This is to ensure that the families receive the greatest respect during this time. You can still access the extension by foot when the barrier is down and everyone is still welcome to attend their loved ones' graves as always.

“However, if you do have any issues that you would like to raise with us please do contact the bereavement services team on 01254 202021.”

A spokesperson for Blackburn with Darwen Council said: "The majority of the site is open to both vehicles and those on foot. The only bit that is closed this afternoon is the extension [near the top of the site].

"Therefore it only affects a small area of the crematorium."