Audlem Cemetery

AUDLEM CEMETERY

I pen this article so that all can be kept in the picture regarding the village cemetery -- widely acknowledged as being one of the best, if not the best in all of Cheshire.

I have now been managing the place for 18 years or more and have overseen some 600 plus interments in that time -- aided by members of the Burial Committee when I am absent abroad.

The Cemetery opened in 1872 with the first burial in 1874. It is a place of rest for all faiths and denominations, and we also have two very fine chapels for the ashes of those departed loved ones. All building are listed and the style is of Victorian Gothic. There are unique roof timbers within the chapels plus fine Minton tiled floors

The whole operation is overseen by the Burial Committee, made up of representatives from the parish councils that fall within the ecclesiastical boundary of Audlem. At present our chairman is Ginny Foster of Hankelow and each chairman serves a three year term.As the designated clerk I am responsible for the day to day running of the place and all accounts etc. Dealing with Funeral Directors, churches and Monumental Masons. And supported by a small team of staff in maintaining the place. Plus ensuring that the correct graves are used and with the forward reservation of plots as sought for by those who wish to plan ahead.

.At present the cost of reserving a plot is more that 50% less than one at Crewe Cemetery and I know of one foresighted resident who secured his plot for just £6 some many years ago.It is a very pleasant place to visit- an oasis of calm and of wildlife. Lots of history etched on the headstones which include some war graves from WW1.

The magnificent Lime tree by the machinery shed was planted in the reign of King George III- in 1810, and the magnificent Lebanese cedar by the front gate was planted in about 1765 -- the time of Capability Brown, who introduced such specimen trees to many grand houses.

We have carried many improvements in the form of new paths etc, opening up the bottom half of the site- and I calculate we have about 50/60 more years of offering spaces.

If you wish more information from me, I am on 01270 812125 and on rjw@notrubraw.com Ralph WarburtonClerk/ManagerAudlem Cemetery

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