A CAMPAIGN is being launched to save one of East Lancashire’s oldest cemeteries from falling into disrepair.

A meeting is being held next week to draw up a plan to restore St James’ Churchyard, in Lower Darwen.

Keeping the site tidy is described as an ‘ongoing battle’ and the parish wants volunteers to clear weeds, cut the grass and ‘do battle with the areas of brambles that are trying to make the area their home’.

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The meeting is being held on Wednesday, June 10, at 7pm in the church coffee lounge.

A spokesman from The Friends of St James Churchyard said: “This historic churchyard was established in 1829 and pre-dates Blackburn Cemetery by some 25 years.

“It contains the graves of many local dignitaries, including those of the Sames and Riley families.

“In addition there are about 30 graves of the heroes of the parish – the gallant men who gave their lives in the world wars.

“Inside the entrance is the site of the original St James’ Church which was demolished in the 1960s.

“The site is fronted by the magnificent Grade II-listed war memorial which is inscribed with the names of 80 local men who died in the two wars.

“Sadly, through the ravages of time, vandalism and of lack of funds, the churchyard has become neglected and in need of some attention.”

In 2005 The Friends of St James Churchyard was set up with the aim of maintaining the churchyard which led to the creation of a wildlife garden.

Rev Horobin launched the The Big Sing in 2012 and this year’s event is expected to attract more than 1,500 people.

The Friends of St James’ Churchyard added: “Interest in the Great War of 1914 stimulated extensive research by a number of local people.

“This work was used as teaching resource during the First World War events by three of our local schools.

“Parties of local children were shown the war graves and given an insight into the lives of the fallen men.

“Prior to this event some small-scale fundraising activities allowed the employment of a local stone mason to make safe all of the graves that had become dangerous.

“These improvements have further encouraged some families to tidy up their graves.”

Anyone interested in getting involved is urged to attend the meeting.