AN effort to reverse “decades of neglect” at a Bridgwater cemetery got a boost when a dozen volunteers turned out to help.

The Friends of the Wembdon Road Cemetery has been working to restore the historic Bridgwater burial ground over a number of years.

And last month, they got a boost when a dozen Wessex Water employees helped out for a day.

It came as part of an initiative at the water firm, which sees a day dedicated to staff supporting charities and causes.

This year, they chose to lend a hand to the Friends of the Cemetery, a group formed in 2010 with the mission of reversing decades of neglect at the disused burial ground.

Opposite the Quantock and Turner’s Optometrists, the Friends’ small team of volunteers have been steadily working each Sunday to cut back weeds, repair memorials, and restore the dignity to this peaceful community green space.

“With their numbers small and the cemetery large, the group eagerly welcomed the 12-strong Wessex Water team,” a spokesperson said.

“Equipped with a variety of gardening tools and plenty of drinking water, the volunteers tackled the overgrown grounds with gusto.

“Their cheerful and determined efforts saw them trimming hedgerows, tidying shrubs and trees, and removing ivy from memorials.”

Wessex Water volunteers getting stuck in at the Bridgwater cemetery

More than 40 dumpy bags of branches, brambles, and ivy were filled.

“We are incredibly grateful to the Wessex Water volunteers for their hard work and enthusiasm,” the spokesperson added.

“Their help has made a significant difference, and we cannot thank them enough.”

Paul Elson, volunteer team leader from Wessex Water, said it “was an absolute pleasure in volunteering to help the Friends of Wembdon Cemetery”.

“With the summer weather now finally upon us sites do tend to get overgrown rapidly in change of weather,” he added.

“It was great to hear about the history of the site and to make a contribution to helping to maintain such a beautiful area.”

The Friends group has been working to restore the burial ground