A TASK force secretly combing the country for sites to hold mass civilian graves after any terror attack is being headed by East Kent's former coroner.

Richard Sturt, who retired as coroner in 2001, began the Government's secret project into planning mortuaries for mass fatalities in January. He said he hopes to finish the Home Office project this month.

It is expected he will report to Home Secretary David Blunkett in April.

The work means seeking sites around the country where mass graves capable of holding thousands of bodies could be prepared for possible terrorist attacks after the outbreak of war.

It is believed this includes aircraft hangars and other large halls in remote areas where possible infection from smallpox could be contained in the event of a biological attack.

A Home Office spokesman confirmed Mr Sturt, 63, had been chosen to head the covert operation because of his experience in the field of fatalities.

The spokesman was unable to give specific details of Mr Sturt's work for security reasons, but said it is part of the country's ongoing emergency planning.