A WIDOW was left in tears after discovering a giant mound had been left on her husband's grave from the next burial over. 

64-year-old Julie Armstrong, a mum-of-three, was horrified when she went to Parkside Road cemetery in Kendal with her two sons, aged 37 and 42, on Saturday, August 17.

Her husband Rod died in 2004 and her family bought a plot to honour his memory.

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When she arrived she said what she saw made her feel sick.

Julie said: "It seemed that workman had been digging the next grave over and they had just left the mess splattered over my husband's headstone, it made me feel sick.

"There was mess left all over my husband's grave and a pot that we usually keep flowers in was just knocked over and discarded.

"It was just so disrespectful and not only was I in tears but it also upset my sons. 

(Image: Julie Armstrong) "We have paid for and maintain this plot and it's really upsetting.

"You think this would be a place that they'd look after - they should have respect for people who have passed.

"I've also got a daughter who was heartbroken when I showed her the pictures.

"She bought a plot right behind my husband which you can see in the space behind.

"I just feel like if we hadn't have complained, nothing would have been done." 

(Image: Julie Armstrong) The family were not able to clean up the mess properly because of the box of soil in such close proximity. 

A spokesperson for Westmorland and Furness Council said: "We recognise the upset this must have caused the family and we have been in contact with the contractors directly to review the matter.

"The operatives working onsite have confirmed as per protocol following a burial that the soil box has since been removed, headstones have been cleaned and any displaced items have been returned to the grave spaces.

"When preparing the ground for a burial, factors such as soil condition and access have to be taken into account. On this occasion, the only suitable space to temporarily contain the excavated soil was on the neighbouring graves.

(Image: Julie Armstrong) "While unfortunately part of normal burial operations, we appreciate this may be concerning for loved ones and as such we ensure any work is carried out in the shortest amount of time possible with the upmost care and due regard for all visitors.

"We apologise for any upset caused and if there are any concerns to please contact the cemetery office directly where they can be discussed further."