Graves dating back to the 18th century have been crushed after a cemetery wall collapsed.
Headstones at Ayr’s historic Auld Kirk were smashed when the ancient wall gave way.
Council chiefs have pledged to excavate the site as part of a painstaking repair bid.
A spokesman said: “A structural engineer has investigated the wall and we are waiting for his report and recommendations.
“In the meantime we have put up fencing to close off the affected area and have contacted residents with gardens backing onto the churchyard.
“We will look to repair any headstones damaged when the section of wall collapsed as part of the wider works.”
The churchyard dates from 1654, when Cromwell requisitioned the town’s original church at St John’s Tower.
