COUNCIL ISSUES COFFIN WARNING (From Warrington Guardian)

COUNCIL ISSUES COFFIN WARNING

MORE coffins could be unearthed as construction work moves onto phase two of Runcorn's new bus terminus, Halton Council announced this week.

Following the recent discovery of human remains at the site of the former Bethesda Chapel in High Stret, the Home Office has advised the council to issue a public notice.

Work on the multi-million pound redevelopment of the bus station was brought to a halt when contractors discovered the tiny coffin of a baby, dating back to 1869.

A further 24 bodies were unearthed. They were all removed by undertakers and reinterred at Runcorn cemetery.

Director of environmental services Dick Tregea said:"Whilst it may be that no further coffins will be unearthed, it cannot be ruled out as a possibility as the redevelopment continues.

"It is therefore necessary to issue a public notice in accordance with the regulations in case such further remains are found."

The Home Office advised the council of the correct procedures for removal and reinterrment of the remains when they were found last month.

In order to comply with the law, government officials have told the council to place a notice in case any more human remains are discovered.

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