A survey of grave memorials is nearing completion, and officials are preparing to turn their attention to the reinstatement of cemeteries.

Harrogate Borough Council, in North Yorkshire, launched the programme after a tragedy nearly two years ago in which a young boy was killed when a gravestone fell on him.

The authority was served with an improvement notice by the Health and Safety Executive, which included a programme for making safe all memorials.

Local councillors will be meeting next week to discuss the way forward now that the survey is virtually complete.

"This survey and safety work has been a major undertaking which has already seen us commit more than £250,000 on safety measures," said council leader Geoff Webber.

"We had to focus first on the matter of removing any dangers, but I am now pleased that we are able to move on and look at the issues of how we deal with the aftermath."