A BID to restore paupers' graves at Ridgmont Cemetery in Horwich has been launched.

Residents have reported that the signs and markings in a section of the cemetery have become badly deteriorated and called on councillors for assistance.

The matter was also raised by councillors at Horwich Town Council, who pledged to restore the site and help with maintenance.

The cemetery, in Chorley Old Road, was originally opened in 1920, and the first burial in the paupers' site, which is on the top side of the cemetery adjacent to Fleet Street, was on February 27, 1928.

Paupers' graves refer to graves which were paid for at public expense, because the deceased person's family could not afford one themselves.

The site features seven foot posts with an ISH inscription, a christogram which is an abbreviation of Jesus Christ.

The posts used to be white but have become worn and darker over time.

Councillors also appealed for members of the public who may have relatives buried there or have any information about the paupers' site to come forward, as there is limited information about it.

Town councillors are also working with Horwich Heritage on the proposed restoration of the site.

Stuart Whittle, chairman of Horwich Heritage, said: "Horwich Heritage was recently alerted to the condition of the paupers' graves in Ridgmont Cemetery by local resident, Ken Chaisty, who had noticed the signs and markings had badly deteriorated.

"Committee member Val Leese investigated the matter with Bolton Council, who are responsible for the upkeep of the cemetery, and found that they were unaware of their existence — they took over the cemetery from Horwich Urban District Council after Local Government reorganisation in 1974.

"Having provided both Bolton and Horwich councils with necessary photographic evidence, the matter was then presented to Horwich Town Council last week to see what could be done to replace the signs and give the site due recognition.

"The town council was sympathetic to the problem and has offered to support the restoration of the site. Bolton Council is also looking into its responsibilities for the site.

"A re-dedication service could be held once the improvements have been carried out."