A PET cemetery is to be created in Derwentside if the scheme is approved.

Murray Memorials in Deneburn Terrace, The Grove, near Consett, wants to use nearby land and has applied for planning permission.

Yvonne Wilson, who owns the business, said: "The idea came from when my son was little and his rabbit died.

"He didn't have anywhere to go to remember him and it really upset him.

"A lot of people bury pets in the garden, but for others that is not an option.

"People have told me they don't like the idea of leaving a pet at a vets to be incinerated.

"This will give people the chance to come and remember their pets and it will help with the grieving process."

Derwentside District Council's planning committee is meeting tomorrow and will discuss the matter.

The authority has received two letters of objection from people who argue it is too close to residential housing and road safety may be jeopardised by people parking next to the cemetery.

Senior area planning officer Ann Rawlinson has written a report advising councillors to back the scheme.

She said: "The burial of small animals is an alternative and more ecologically sound way to dispose of dead animals than cremation.

"The nature of the proposal in the burying of small animals would have a limited impact on the open space and natural character of the site.

"It is not considered there would be any harm in respect of pollution or contamination of the environment.

"The applicant has made contact with the Environment Agency and has been advised of the need for a waste management licence for the disposal of dead animals."

The meeting will be held at the Civic Centre, in Consett, at 2pm