CEMETERY charges in Pendle could be raised by ten per cent to bring them in line with other local authorities.

The increase will take effect from April 1, 2003, if members of Pendle's executive approve the increase at their next meeting on January 8.

Colin Patten, services manager (parks, cemeteries and outdoor recreation), said: "When compared to other neighbouring authorities, the charges made by this council in respect of cemetery services have over the past few years been noticeably lower than the average ones made by other East Lancashire councils.

"In February 2002 the fees and charges for cemeteries and the method employed to revise these fees and charges were the subject of a review by the overview and scrutiny task committee.

"The outcome of the review was that the committee felt that the current approach to the fees for the services provided was the correct one and represented a fair balance between the cost to the council and what customers could reasonably expect to pay, and that it was broadly in line with other local authorities.

The average cost in 2002/03 for an exclusive right of burial for a resident was £384.70. In Pendle it was £338.25 compared to £467.61 in Burnley, £346.00 in Hyndburn and £340.50 in Rossendale.

The average interment fee for residents was £340.15 compared to £292.13 in Pendle and £533.56 in Burnley.

With an increase of ten per cent Pendle residents would pay £321.34 for interment fees and £372 for exclusive right of burial.

The service provided by Pendle Council covers six council-owned cemeteries and five closed burial grounds, for which the council has responsibility for maintenance.