Month: May 2009

The Dangers of Playing with Fire

It was a fire that destroyed the Chapels and sadly youngsters are still playing with fire within the Cemetery.

This of course is both dangerous to the youngsters and to the Cemetery itself.

These youngsters had decided to build themselves a small ‘den’ beneath the trees within the Cemetery and decided that a fire would be a good idea.

All this after the Cemetery closed for the evening.

However, the result was that the tree caught fire.

Fortunately, one of the Committee saw the smoke rising from the Cemetery and called the Emergency Services.

The Local Police are aware of the problem with youngsters and will be keeping a watchful eye.

Vandalism is a crime – it is criminal damage to destroy property and here we have mindless damage to graves and trees.

It is not just youthful fun – it must be stopped.

You too can play your part by reporting any anti-social behaviour – the Cemetery belongs to us all and we all have a responsibility to safeguard our heritage.

The Chapels – Latest News

An Options Appraisal has now been undertaken by architectural consultants to review the structure and environment of the twin terracotta Chapels and potential ways of raising funds for their restoration, future maintenance and improvements to the cemetery in general.

Their proposals were received by the Friends’ Committee and then offered for consideration to Councillor Len Gregory, the Cabinet member for Transportation.

Councillor Gregory rejected all the suggested proposals.  Consequently the Public Consultation arranged for Wednesday 8th April 2009, was cancelled, there being no practical reason for holding that consultation in view of his rejection of the proposals made by the architects in their review.

We now have to return to the drawing board and consider alternative options.  However, we do now have valuable additional and expert information on many matters in respect of the chapels and the cemetery environment as a result of that Options Appraisal.

The support of the membership is enormously appreciated and the Committee will continue its efforts in respect of the Chapels and will always keep you informed.