Probe into water leaks at graves in second cemetery

Anxious families told about tests to chambers

Graves at a second South Ayrshire cemetery were feared to have ‘water ingress’.

Troon cemetery is at the centre of a council probe with temporary screens being erected around the site.

Worried families have been informed after suspected leaks were spotted in chambers.

It comes just weeks after a shock investigation at Ayr Cemetery revealed water was leaking into graves.

Crews had to pump water out of 10 graves as a top exhumer continues to search for a solution to prevent further leaks at the local authority’s largest cemetery.

Troon council candidate Philip Saxton has been in touch with concerned relatives.

Mr Saxton said: “I am aware there is a leak and believe it is coming from the top of the chambers. I have been contacted by families who know there are leaks, its similar to what happened in Ayr.”

The same tests are being carried out on chambers at Troon which are said to be similar to the ones installed in Ayr.

Chambers in Ayr were supposed to be airtight and watertight after being installed by an internal contractor.

But the damning initial report following an inspection found that rainwater and surface water was leaking into graves.

A council statement said: “Some of you may have noticed temporary screening has been put in place at Troon cemetery extension.

“We’re carrying out some tests on empty chambers following the works at Ayr Cemetery extension, as both of these locations have similar chambers installed.

“Troon Cemetery extension will remain open while the tests are being carried out.”

Dozens of mourners in Ayr are still left without answers despite granting their permission for graves to be inspected.