A fundraiser has been launched to support the upkeep of an East Cambridgeshire village cemetery that is at risk of being closed to future burials.

Ely resident Debbie Adams-Payne has set up a GoFundMe page in aid of Little Downham Cemetery. 

Since being set up on behalf of the cemetery committee, the campaign has raised £715 towards its target of £4,000.

Debbie said that donations will help with the regular maintenance of the cemetery which includes grass cutting, tree surgery and general upkeep of the paths and bins.

She added: "We do not have enough income to cover the cost of maintaining this important parish facility and sadly, if funds cannot be secured, there is a very real possibility that the cemetery will have to be closed and no further burials will take place in it."

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However, if the funding can be secured on a guaranteed, annual basis, "we will then be able to continue with the vital regular maintenance.

"And then, in future, we may be able to apply for re-burial in the older areas of the cemetery, incorporating all relevant consultations that are required.

"This would ensure that local people can continue to be buried in the village for the foreseeable future."

There are various ways to contribute to the campaign, either via the GoFundMe page, for a one-off donation or an annual standing order of £20 (or whatever is affordable).

Debbie said: "If you would like the details for a standing order or have any questions, please feel free to contact the committee debbieadamspayne@hotmail.com 

"Your help is very much appreciated, and our local burial ground should be and is a place of dignity and rest for our loved ones, that we hope, can be maintained for future generations."

To donate, visit: www.gofundme.com/f/little-downham-cemetery-needs-you