A leading charity supporting those affected by the deaths of babies has spoken out on the "absolutely heartbreaking" discovery of a mass grave in Royton.

A mass grave containing more than 300 bodies was uncovered at Royton Cemetery this week, sparking calls for a memorial and for records and documents about the burials should be made more accessible and digitalised.

The unmarked burial site contains 145 stillborn children, 128 babies and young kids and 29 adults, according to local councillors.

The discovery was made by a Royton woman who was searching for the last resting place of her twin brothers, who passed away shortly after birth in 1962. 

It is also believed the 12×12 burying place may not be the only one in Royton Cemetery. 

READ MORE: ‘Heartbreaking’ mass grave found in Royton Cemetery

Now, the Stillbirth and Neonatal Death Charity (Sands) has said they are offering support to anyone affected by the discovery.

Jen Coates, Sands' Director of Bereavement Support, said: "The discovery of the mass grave in Oldham is absolutely heartbreaking and especially so for anyone who thinks that their baby may be buried there.

"Sands is here to offer emotional support to anyone in Oldham and across the UK who has been affected by this upsetting news. We are thinking of all bereaved parents and families and their babies at this very sad time.

"We know that parents never forget their babies. We are often contacted by bereaved parents whose baby died many years ago and who now want to find out what happened to their baby’s body.

"Although Sands cannot trace babies' graves we can offer advice and support to anyone who is trying to find out where their baby or the baby of a family member may be buried. Please don't hesitate to get in touch with Sands."

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A motion, put forward by the Royton Independents and due to be discussed at a council meeting on Wednesday, September 11, has called for the council to erect a memorial to the buried children.

The motion also suggests records and documents about the burials should be made more accessible and digitalised and support given for grieving relatives. 

Council leader Arooj Shah offered support for families who may have been affected.

She said: “We understand this news will be upsetting for a lot of people and our thoughts are with them.

"As a matter of urgency we will consider the suggestion being made and what may be appropriate to recognise those buried in Royton by providing a suitable memorial."

She added: “Sadly, the burying of people, including babies and children, in unmarked graves happened in graveyards all around the country years ago.

“Thankfully, things have changed and improved over the years. The Government now pay for the funerals of stillborn babies and anyone up to the age of 18 if necessary. Public graves are no longer used.”