LISTEN: Glasgow woman claims cemetery staff "desecrated" daughter's grave
Laura McArthur says a workman has "desecrated" her daughter Jodie Muir's grave in St Peter's Cemetery in the east end
A Glasgow mum's exclusively telling Clyde News about the torment of coming face-to-face with a workman removing precious family momentoes from her daughter's grave.
Laura McArthur claims the cemetery worker put vases, flowers and pictures of her daughter Jodie Muir into a black bin bag at St Peter's Cemetery in the east end.
The mum says when she confronted him he swore at her adding further pain.
Her daughter died aged 16 almost two years ago after falling ill at a party.
Laura spoke to our Chief Reporter Linda Sinclair:
A spokesperson for the Archdiocese of Glasgow which runs the cemetery gave us a statement:
“The Cemetery Rules & Regulations Booklet provided to all owners makes it clear that the erection of kerbs/railings/chips and the like are strictly prohibited. This is on the grounds that they can constitute a safety hazard, to employees opening adjacent lairs.
"Additionally, they can make regular ground maintenance hazardous if grass cutters or strimmers come into contact with loose objects. Finally, removal of extraneous items also contributes to the visual amenity of the grounds.
"Owners are advised of these regulations when plots are being purchased, through reminder letters and via prominent signs situated throughout the cemetery. The letters ask owners to remove such items within 14 days of the date of the letter and offer the assistance of the cemetery staff in doing so.
"Cemetery staff always engage professionally and courteously with plot owners and visitors. The member of staff who spoke to Mrs. McArthur did not use offensive or abusive language at any time, the conversation took place in the presence of a witness who confirms this.
"Staff are advised that aggressive or threatening behaviour on the part of visitors should be reported to the police.”