Churchyards
The two Churchyards in Wargrave are:
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| St. Mary's Churchyard | The New Church Cemetery ("The Chalk Pit") |
There is now very little remaining space in the Churchyard for graves, but the interment of ashes following cremation is still possible. The former practice of inserting memorials in the Churchyard walls has now been discontinued to avoid damage to their old brick and flint construction.
Most burials now happen in the Chalk Pit Cemetery, and space is also available there for the interment of ashes.
In order to assist in the maintenance of the Churchyards, the PCC has endorsed the Oxford Diocesan set of "Churchyard Regulations" which lay down general rules for the size and shape of gravestones and inscriptions, limitations on the layout of the ground occupied by a grave or ashes interment, and on the planting and display of flowers, bushes etc. These regulations may be read here.
Maintenance of Churchyard Grass
The grass in the Churchyard at St. Mary's is cut on a weekly basis between late March and the end of October by teams of volunteers. The new Church Cemetery requires more resources which are funded separately.
As far as is possible, the principles of Creation Care are observed in the process of managing these Churchyards.
Friends of the Cemetery
The aim of the Friends of the Cemetery is to improve standards in general and increase the area of grass that is regularly trimmed. In support of that aim, Ann and Len Roberts lead the initiative to raise extra funds needed, over and above the small Parish Council grant they receive. This will extend the cemetery's useful life for a number of years. Overall the cemetery is already in much better shape.
In the early part of the year, large areas of snowdrops come into flower followed by carpets of crocus and primroses. A visit at that time is particularly rewarding.
Thanks go to the dedicated group of supporters who have contributed so far whether in financial terms or by giving their time and physical effort. The Friends would welcome further help in the long term to maintain the target standards. Pledges for routine payments would be particularly welcome. The funds are held in the Cemetery Maintenance Fund, a Church account dedicated for the purpose, which enables Gift Aid to be used to recover the donor's tax.
As Cemetery Warden, Peter Mayes (0118 940 2497) monitors the situation on behalf of the Vicar and the PCC and superintends work (in coordination with Len and Ann). Please contact Len and Ann direct on 0118 940 2656 to contribute as a donor or as a volunteer worker.
