A TEAM of stonemasons will begin a clean-up operation on gravestones at Ellesmere Port’s Overpool cemetery on Monday.
The operation has been offered by the Essar Oil Company following an inadvertent release of steam containing oil product early last Tuesday morning.
Stonework experts believe that the fallout on most of the affected memorials can easily be wiped clean.
However, on some of the most affected – mainly white marble – oil stains will have to be removed by using specialist products.
Today (Friday), Essar and Cheshire West and Chester Council launched a full-scale operation to inform any living relatives of people buried in the cemetery.
A spokesman for Essar Oil UK said: “Essar Oil UK regrets any distress caused to families impacted by these events.
“An internal inquiry is underway at Stanlow to establish the exact cause of the problem and to ensure that it does not happen again.”
“There are no safety concerns for employees on site – or the public – and the refinery has continued to operate normally.”
A hotline was set up in the days following the incident, to deal with inquiries from the public, offering advice and help if needed.
The number is 0151 355 3846 and will remain in place as long as necessary.
Cheshire West and Chester Council Leader Mike Jones said it would have been impossible for the authority to notify individually the relatives of an estimated 30,000 people buried in the cemetery.
“The clean-up operation has to take place as soon as possible and we are attempting to reach the public via traditional and social media,” he said.
“In addition, there will be printed notices at the cemetery and leaflets to inform those visiting graves at the weekend.”
Local Member Councillor Justin Madders added: “We want to reassure any members of the public who may find oil residue on their family memorials that Essar have promised to remedy the situation as soon as possible.
“The authority will continue to monitor the situation.”
