THE re-opening of Merthyr Dyfan Cemetery is in doubt after it was alleged a member of the public spat at a security guard while another coughed in a guard’s face on Monday, May 4.

Barry Town Council (BTC) received reports that social distancing had not been observed and some visitors had behaved in an aggressive manner.

Signage stating that water and bins were not in use was ignored and strimmers and lawnmowers were brought to the burial ground.

BTC is now reviewing the decision to open the cemetery due to the unacceptable behaviour from a minority of visitors.

The council said it had listened to the public, and due to the change in Public Health Wales Regulations, had begun the trial in response.

BTC town clerk, Emily Forbes said: “Clearly, there is very high public interest in visiting the cemetery and laying flowers, and the council has opened on a trial basis in recognition of the community’s request to be able to visit and remember their loved ones.

“The decision to open on a limited basis was put in place as a trial following an assessment of risk, and by putting new measures in place including employing additional security to support the flow of visitors and to ensure the area is as safe as possible for the public and the workforce.

“Over 600 people attended the cemetery yesterday afternoon (May 4) and overall 95 per cent of visitors attended their loved ones’ graves respectfully and fully co-operated with the rules set out by the council.

“However, some visitors did not adhere to social distancing rules, despite clear signage and communication from staff and were abusive and aggressive in their manner.

“Some visitors ignored the signage that water and bins were not in use and proceeded to tamper with barriers in order to use them.

“Some brought equipment with them to cut grass at the graveside.

“Unfortunately, the behaviour of a few is putting other visitors’ safety at risk and cannot go unnoticed.”

She added: “There were two specific incidents of unacceptable behaviour which are being referred to the police; one individual spat at a security member and another coughed in a security member’s face.

“The council will not tolerate abuse towards its staff or contractors and is reviewing the trial opening in light of this.

“Facilities that have been withdrawn are to prevent the possible spread of coronavirus through use of water, bins, benches and public toilets.

“This is for the safety of all public and staff and we would ask you to co-operate fully with these instructions.”

Ms Forbes reiterated that it was essential to observe social distancing when visiting, keeping two metres apart (six feet) and respecting other visitors when attending the cemetery.

Signs and caution tape have been installed around the cemetery for the public’s safety.

Visitors are urged not to interfere with the tape or signage.

When entering and leaving the cemetery the hand sanitiser pumps provided at the entrance should be used to prevent any spread of the virus and people should adhere to the one-way system in place and follow the signage around the cemetery.

Ms Forbes said: “The cemetery is closed to public vehicles and only pedestrian access will be allowed.

“This is to ensure the safety of all visitors during this trial period and given the numbers of cars attempting to the enter the cemetery yesterday, this is required to mitigate against any further risks.

“Wheelchairs and mobility scooters are allowed to enable access for those with reduced mobility to visit the graveside.

“In line with Government advice, those in vulnerable groups or over 70s should still be shielding and staying at home to protect their health.

“The overall message remains the same - to stay home and stay safe - and the council is not condoning those in vulnerable categories making visits to the cemetery.

“If you have any symptoms of coronavirus you must not enter or visit the cemetery until after the 14-day self-isolation period has passed.

“We have implemented these additional measures to protect the public and the workforce from any contamination and prevent the spread of the virus.”

The cemetery will open from 3pm to 6pm on Wednesday, May 6.

Ms Forbes added: “We will review numbers and public behaviour again.

“If advice and safety measures are still not followed, or further abuse or unacceptable behaviour is directed at staff, we will have no choice but to end the trial of opening the cemetery to visitors during this emergency period.

“The council asks for your full co-operation in this matter.”

South Wales Police has been asked to comment.