Cromer Town Council has apologised to mourners visiting the town's cemetery after they slammed its unkempt appearance as 'heart-breaking'.

People visiting the resting place in Holt Road have raised concerns over the maintenance of the grounds, highlighting grass cutting as a particular worry.

Visitors have reported that some patches have been left uncut while other areas that have been clipped have been left covered with mounds of dead trimmings.

The town council today issued a statement sincerely apologising for any 'inconvenience or distress' caused to visitors.

The authority said: 'Due to an unexpected change in circumstances an emergency temporary contract is in place but unfortunately there is no machine available at present to collect the grass clippings.

'The contractor has been asked, as a matter of urgency, to look into whether a grass collecting machine can be hired for the duration of the temporary contract.'

Members have also responded to concerns about litter bins on the site becoming full, and the contractor will now empty them daily.

A tender for the permanent contract to maintain the grounds has gone out and the authority has stressed whoever takes it on will be required to collect grass cuttings.

The statement added: 'The town council has taken this opportunity to fully review the maintenance contract and would like to reassure members of the public that the permanent contract will specify that grass clippings are collected.'

? Anyone interested in taking on the contract should contact the clerk on 01263 512254 by noon on July 19. Anyone with further questions about the cemetery's maintenance can call the clerk or email admin@cromertown.org