Grave is dug up in plot claim
A grave was dug up and a coffin photographed - after relatives of the deceased person were convinced he was buried in the wrong plot.
A grave was dug up and a coffin photographed - after relatives of the deceased person were convinced he was buried in the wrong plot.
Church bosses at St John the Baptist Churchyard, in Armitage near Lichfield, excavated a grave after being approached by George Hill's relatives.
Village rector Rev David Thomas agreed to dig to the level of the coffin and reveal the name plate. But the work was done while Mr Hill's relatives were not there.
According to the rector he tried and failed to contact the family, and so took photographs of the excavations.
A statement issued by the Diocese of Lichfield said Rev Thomas told the Hills there were photos were available.
The rector posted them through the door of Mr Hill's 77-year-old widow. He has now apologised for the distress.
A complaint was lodged and the case relayed to the chancellor Judge Marten Coates.
The chancellor has said "it appeared that the rector had acted with the best of intentions".