PROPOSALS to dig graves on a recreation ground have left park goers up in arms.

Using Honor Oak Park recreation ground, which straddles the border between Lewisham and Southwark, is among options being considered to solve Southwark Council’s burial space shortage.

The park was originally bought by the council in 1901 for use as burial ground.

But it has since been used as a park by many people, including Hillyfielders Junior Football Club.

Famous users include ex-Palace and England football ace Ian Wright who played there as a youngster.

A petition set up by the Friends of Honor Oak Park Recreation Ground has had more than 1,100 signatures so far and is supported by the Forest Hill Society and Lewisham’s Councillor Alex Feakes.

Group member Fiona Hull, 40, of Sevenoaks Road, said: “Taking green space away is not a sustainable option because what happens when they fill this ground up?

“How shortsighted.”

Ms Hull said this was one of the only public open spaces in the area and campaigners were demanding it be ruled out as an option.

She said: “This is bang smack in the middle of a dense urban area. We have to protect our green spaces in London.”

Cabinet member for transport, environment and recycling at Southwark Council Councillor Barrie Hargrove said: "The council is currently formulating its options on the shortage of burial space.

“These will be taken to cabinet in due course, following which there will be full public consultation prior to any proposals being implemented."

To sign the petition visit petitionbuzz.com/petitions/savehonoroakparkrec