TWO granite maps helping people locate graves in Darwen Cemetery have been erected.

The maps were commissioned by Friends of Darwen Cemetery using a grant of £1,000 from the Lloyd Trust.

Blackburn stonemason firm Brent Stevenson Memorials carried out the work and the maps are near the cemetery’s two main entrances.

They point out the location of each of the cemetery’s sections, making it easier to locate graves, and also feature pictures of previous works carried out by the friends group. A space has been left for a picture of the First World War commemoration, plans for which are to be unveiled in the new year.

John East, of the Friends of Darwen Cemetery, said: “We are so grateful for the generosity of the Lloyd Trust grant. The granite maps will certainly give the many visitors an overview of the location of family graves.

“We have noticed a significant increase in people looking for family graves and many graves are now being re-erected and cared for. The friends have regular working parties and the cemetery is undergoing much renovation and reclamation. If somebody wanted to locate a grave and had no idea where it was, they can ring the borough council to find out, then use the map to find the right section.”

John Jacklin, of the Lloyd Trust, said: “It was felt it was appropriate that people should be able to find their way around the cemetery.”