A council has issued an apology to those affected after a church graveyard was left in "total carnage" following a clean-up job.

When Roger Clarke went to visit his parents' graves in Trimley St Martin Church he was met with plant pots lying on the floor, bulbs and grass lying everywhere and smashed flowers.

He said this is not the first time he has seen it left in this state and contacted East Suffolk Council regarding the scene that was left.

Ipswich Star: East Suffolk Council has said it was people who were not familiar with the area that did the churchyard. Credit: Roger ClarkeEast Suffolk Council has said it was people who were not familiar with the area that did the churchyard. Credit: Roger Clarke (Image: Roger Clarke)

Mr Clarke said: "I went to check on their grave and it was just total destruction.

"Whoever had done the job had basically gone through with a strimmer, obviously chopping down grass and whatever was in their way, and everything was just thrown about, smashed, damaged.

"It was total carnage. Words failed me really, I just looked at it.

Ipswich Star: Roger Clarke found the total destruction when visiting his parents' graves. Credit: Roger ClarkeRoger Clarke found the total destruction when visiting his parents' graves. Credit: Roger Clarke (Image: Roger Clarke)

"I can't see what was going through someone's head when they took the strimmer, went through it all and thought they'd leave it in that state."

An East Suffolk Council spokesperson said: "Regrettably, a number of daffodils were cut down in error, and vases were accidentally broken, during the regular upkeep of Trimley St Martin churchyard by grounds maintenance staff from East Suffolk Norse.

"Due to staff absence, this work had been carried out by a team unfamiliar with the location and unused to strimming the area.

Ipswich Star: The hedge strimmer left grass and daffodils around the place. Credit: Roger ClarkeThe hedge strimmer left grass and daffodils around the place. Credit: Roger Clarke (Image: Roger Clarke)

"As soon as the matter was reported, operatives were redeployed to clear up any damage caused.

"We would like to apologise to anyone affected by this unfortunate incident and provide reassurance that staff have been reminded of their responsibilities."

Mr Clarke added: "I think it would be a nice gesture if Norse offered to replace the flowers on people's graves as they cost money, that would mean a lot to people."

Ipswich Star: Plant pots were destroyed in the upkeep and maintenance. Credit: Roger ClarkePlant pots were destroyed in the upkeep and maintenance. Credit: Roger Clarke (Image: Roger Clarke)

Ipswich Star: East Suffolk Norse sent representatives to clean up the mess. Credit: Roger ClarkeEast Suffolk Norse sent representatives to clean up the mess. Credit: Roger Clarke (Image: Roger Clarke)