Torrential rain threatens maroon cemetery

Torrential rain is threatening to displace dozens of tombs at the Charlestown maroon cemetery in Buff Bay, Portland, after water from a nearby river flooded several graves.



A member of the maroon council, Richard Irving said that during heavy rainfall the cemetery is usually flooded.



He said continuous appeals have been made to the Portland Parish Council for assistance in digging a proper drain to channel the water away from the cemetery, but to date there has been no response.



Member of Parliament for West Portland, Daryl Vaz has promised to deal with the concerns.



Mr. Vaz said he would be seeking the approval of the Public Health Department to carry out emergency work in the cemetery and along its boundaries before the end of the week.



Torrential rainfall during over the past four days has left several roadways in the parish flooded and some partially blocked.