Restoration of Churchyard Boundary

Some people will have noticed that we have reinstated the fence towards the end of the footpath from the courthouse (currently used by the nursery) to the Cock Close, to close the gap in the boundary which was caused by the removal of dead or decaying holly trees. We appreciate that we have been very lax in replacing this and people have got used to taking a short cut across the churchyard. We appreciate this closure may cause some slight inconvenience but there is no right of way across the Churchyard.

It was brought to our aSen+on that damage has been caused by people inadvertently walking over cared for graves which has understandably caused great distress to the rela+ves. We would love people to take a walk in the churchyard, but can we remind everyone that it is consecrated ground, and the area does need to be respected. Many people, especially those with rela+ves buried or interred in the churchyard, take time in it for quiet contemplation.

Some of you may be wondering about the green gates that open onto the wide green area crossing the churchyard from north to south which is also not a right of way. This is the end of a green way from the ‘pest house’ (located in the Slade Nature Reserve) which circumnavigated the village so that those unfortunate villagers dying of contagious diseases could be brought to the churchyard without passing through the village. The green space in the churchyard was wide enough for a horse and cart to be turned round.

Damage in St. Mary’s Church

During the week of the 26th of April, the contactless donation machine on the table to the left as you enter the church has been damaged and this has now been reported to the Police. Please help us in ensuring that the church can remain open for all to use.

Likewise, the North Porch area ends up with a lot of cans and cigarette ends for us to clear and seems to be a meeting place for youngsters. Can everyone please ensure that their rubbish goes home with them or is placed in the dustbins on the other side of the church.

Thank you and we look forward to seeing you enjoying visiting the church and churchyard.

Barbara Walklate Churchwarden St. Mary’s Church,