Gravediggers told to bone up to make approved list

It is a skill which used to be passed down from fathers to sons but now would-be gravediggers will have to bury their heads in the books to progress in their chosen career.

The county and town councils in Cork have passed bylaws, to be implemented on June 18, which will require nearly all gravediggers to undergo mandatory training.

Once they have undertaken courses, which could cost up to €460, they will be included in Cork County Council’s list of approved gravediggers.