Concerns raised over '˜unacceptable' Kettering churchyard mess

A Kettering woman has branded the mess left in a churchyard '˜unacceptable' after spotting beer cans, rubbish and vomit on her morning walk.
The mess left behind. Picture by Sam Longhurst.The mess left behind. Picture by Sam Longhurst.
The mess left behind. Picture by Sam Longhurst.

Sam Longhurst has voiced her concerns over a bench in the grounds of St Andrew’s Church in Lindsay Street.

The matter has been the subject of a number of complaints on social media, but Mrs Longhurst says this week has been the final straw.

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She said: “This week was the worst I have seen it. It was appalling.

The mess left behind. Picture by Sam Longhurst.The mess left behind. Picture by Sam Longhurst.
The mess left behind. Picture by Sam Longhurst.

“It’s just not acceptable. I know police have not got the resources but something needs to be done.

“The gate could be locked but then that needs someone to patrol it.

“I live in Lindsay Street and run Slimming World classes at the church on Tuesday mornings and Thursday evenings so I see it all the time.

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“There’s vomit and they urinate round the back, it’s absolutely disgusting.”

The mess left behind. Picture by Sam Longhurst.The mess left behind. Picture by Sam Longhurst.
The mess left behind. Picture by Sam Longhurst.

The area is covered by Kettering Council’s PSPO, meaning drinking alcohol in the churchyard is prohibited and punishable with a £100 fine.

A council spokesman said: “This land belongs to the church and we will be discussing with the vicar ways to find a solution.

“We have been made aware the church do clean up the area as required.

“This area is covered by the PSPO and regular visits are made by the police and wardens.”

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