PEEBLES community leaders are hoping to press forward with plans to enhance the children’s cemetery with the creation of a remembrance memorial.

The community council sought the views of the public regarding removal the overgrown Cherry Trees in an effort to create a brighter place for bereaved families to visit.

Chairman Les Turnbull says he is keen to see improvements in this section of the cemetery which is covered in bird faeces.

One bereaved parent attended a meeting of the community council to suggest the erection of a metal tree sculpture similar to the Tree of Tranquillity provided by SiMBA.

Despite a public consultation the community council has only received one objection via Scottish Borders Council from a local who does not want the trees cut down.

Mr Turnbull said: “I have asked the council for the contact details of the individual who was concerned about the removal of the Cheery trees because I wanted to try and engage with her to find out what her concerns are, and to see if we can meet her concerns by the erection of something else in the children’s cemetery.”

Newly-formed gardening volunteers from Bonnie Peebles Plus have agreed to create flowerbeds around the suggested sculpture.

Mr Turnbull continued: “I think actually with a little bit of thought and care we could make that a really lovely place, rather than the dark, dank place it is at the minute.”

If you have a view please contact Peebles Community Council by emailing secretary@ccrbpeebles.co.uk