A GROUP of volunteers is tidying up vandalised Ryde Cemetery and trying to brighten the town's tarnished reputation.

Among those lending a hand are Ryde Isle of Wight Council members David Knowles and Ernie Fox. MP Andrew Turner also dropped by to give words of encouragement to the workers.

The project has been organised by the Friends of Ryde Cemetery. Its long standing aims include improving security at the cemetery where more than 50 graves were wrecked when a gang of vandals went on the rampage there over Easter.

Councillor Stephens who is spearheading the campaign - that also seeks to establish a cultural centre at the cemetery - said: "After a week of negativity and destruction, this was a positive event and enjoyed by everyone who took part.

"There was a sense of achievement among the volunteers when they went away but there is a lot of hard work to do in the months ahead."

Cllr Stephens said work to repair and improve the cemetery would be slow, precise and deliberate.

"We want to get things right," he said.

More such volunteer days are planned and anyone wishing to get involved should contact Cllr Stephens on 01983 811686.