A COUNCIL has apologised after clearing wreaths from a town cemetery earlier than planned.

Durham County Council had initially asked that all Christmas wreaths be removed from Crook cemetery by the end of February, but authority workers cleared the grave sides two weeks early.

One cemetery visitor, who asked not to be named, said: “What’s the point in setting a deadline if they are going to breach it?

“Many people would have wanted to remove the wreaths themselves and will find it very upsetting that they have been taken before they may have had a chance to retrieve them.”

The man said he has complained to the council and received an apology.

Ian Hoult, neighbourhood protection manager for Durham County Council, said workers had moved in early due to high winds blowing the wreaths around the cemetery.

He said: “The high winds caused some wreaths to be blown about and we were unable to replace several where they came from, which meant our staff unfortunately pre-empted the end of February deadline.

“A letter of apology has already been sent to the gentleman concerned and we can only say sorry for any inconvenience or upset caused.”