Update: The fallen branches of the tree have been cleared and the cemetery is open again, for anyone wishing to visit.

Following Storm Darragh over the weekend, the Sherborne Cemetery will remain closed for public access. The town council is currently working with its statutory bodies to ensure the immediate area, to include Lenthay Road, is made safe following significant damage to the huge copper beech tree located within the cemetery.

A temporary road closure along with the necessary diversions are currently being put into place, for a section of Lenthay Road, whilst works remain ongoing this week. Once safe to do so and the necessary tree works have been carried out, both the damage to the wall and potentially any memorials caused by the tree will be assessed and the relevant families contacted.

The town council has notified our insurers of the extent of the situation at this location. Sherborne Abbey Primary School has also been contacted due to potential travel disruption whilst the road remains closed.

The dog walk at the Terrace Playing Fields, which was closed over the weekend, is now open and the area around the fallen beacon has been cordoned off so there is no public access.

The Town Council Grounds Maintenance Team is currently assessing the wider town for any further damage caused by the storm.