We understand that a recent article concerning a burial in the wrong grave has caused distress. We want to clarify the facts and address any concerns.
This is in reference to the burial of Yrian Smith and how the family was informed by Caerphilly council that a double burial had taken place with someone they didn’t know.
The situation stems from an administrative error by the Council. Two separate graves in two separate graveyards were involved according to our records. We will be in touch with the council to clarify their records to ensure this does not happen again.
We are very concerned that this has happened and deeply sympathise with the family for the distress and upset caused.
This incident underscores the importance of checking with the Church directly for burial enquires. Before contacting the Council, we recommend consulting the Gwent Archives as your initial point of reference and contacting us for specific grave locations.
When the family contacted us, we assured them we would establish the facts for them, which we have endeavoured to do.
I assured the family that we would resolve the matter, which we have and are fully confirming; we will contact the family as we go on or be available for any questions, albeit after the article was published. Unfortunately, the published article contains factual inaccuracies that we hope to correct through this statement.
We remain committed to serving our community with accuracy and compassion. Please feel free to contact us directly with any concerns or questions.
Rev Matt Davis
Ministry Area Leader