A TOWN council is to wait six months to see if the state of a cemetery can be improved.

Residents in Blackrod have complained about problems at the cemetery in Manchester Road.

Blackrod Town Council suggested it could take over the maintenance from Bolton Council.

Councillors received a letter from John White, cemetery manager, which said: “There were some problems with maintenance earlier in the year but I think we can work through this.

“I would rather work with the town council and residents, and not get into a situation of who is responsible for what.

“Communication is the key.”

Residents have previously given a petition of support to the town council.

Cllr Isabel Seddon said: “I have some fears about taking over the maintenance. We would need to know more about the budget and I’m not sure we are ready for this as we have not yet got quality parish status.”

Councillors agreed to monitor the situation for the next six months.