Month: August 2014

More mature tree losses

Unfortunately two large Beech trees on the Broad Lane boundary were damaged by a serious shed fire some time ago. The  two trees have been fatally affected and despite the efforts of the Tree Officers  we have been told that one of these will have to be removed and another drastically cut back.

Brandwood End Cemetery is now close to 115 years old and many of the trees pre date the opening in 1899 as they made up part of the original farm tree stock.  It is always sad to see a mature tree come to the end of its life, for whatever reason, but we must try to ensure that these trees are replaced with suitable stock so that future generations can enjoy this peaceful green space.Oak Tree Island and Cross 008 (800x600)

 

Latest development of WW1 Memorial Island

We reported on this blog that Bereavement Services were hoping to create a WW1 Memorial Garden on the site of what was formerly known as ‘Oak Tree Island’. As you can see from our photograph, the actual Memorial is now in place. We watch with interest as the area develops.

IMG_7371It would be lovely if this could be completed by the time we hold the Heritage Open Event on September 13th- but time is possibly against us.

This is a beautiful Memorial and the creation of this area will complement the rest of this peaceful cemetery.

Heritage Open Event – Saturday 13th September

Cross of Sacrifice at Brandwood End CemetaryThe Friends of Brandwood End Cemetery and BCC Bereavement Service staff invite you to join them at a WW1 Heritage Open Event on Saturday 13th September between 11am and 2pm.

The days’ activities include:  grave walks led by FBEC members, memorabilia, photographs and a short talk by Doug Smith about the effects of the Great War on everyone involved. Join us for a cup of tea and a slice of ‘trench’ cake!

We would be very interested to see any WW1 family memorabilia that you may wish to share with us, especially anything linked to Brandwood End.

The first walk will start at 11am prompt. If you require any further information please contact us on friendsofbec@gmail.com

‘Roadworks’ at last!

For many months now we have been awaiting the commencement of work on the pot holes along the cemetery drives.  Earlier this week our Chairwoman got really excited as, from her house, she could hear the sound of heavy plant engines so she rushed round only to find it that was a large drain cleaning machine! Disappointment…. but then the helpful driver informed me that he would be followed within a couple of days by the whole kit and caboodle. Today it all arrived and work has begun.

IMG_7348 (800x600) IMG_7349 (800x600) IMG_7351 (800x600)Take care when using any of the drives as preparation work involves removing the road surface in some areas.

FBEC and the staff at Bereavement Services have received many complaints about the appalling condition of the drives and, whilst the work carried out will be limited, this must be a step in the right direction.

1914 Trail

On Saturday the 9th of August the Park Ranger Service will be leading a walk starting at Brandwood End Cemetery. There will be a very brief talk about the Cemetery and the part it played in the Great War and then the trail will head off to investigate other significant areas locally. For full details please use the link below. The walk will start at the Lodge on the main drive at 10.30am prompt. 

http://events.birmingham.gov.uk/events/1914-trail/Superintendent's Lodge (1)