Caring for
our Churchyard

St Laurence Church PCC is committed to maintaining the churchyard to the highest standard we can. However, we are facing increasing challenges. The upkeep of over two acres of sacred ground is funded solely by the generous giving of our church members and visitors through regular donations and collections.

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Despite running a QR code giving campaign for two years—advertised in our Grapevine Magazine, on our weekly newsletter, and online—we have not yet received any direct support from this source. Unfortunately, our income no longer covers the cost of what is needed to maintain the churchyard at the level we aspire to.

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As a result, since April this year we’ve had to reduce contracted maintenance to once per month (April–October). Our contractor does an extraordinary amount in a very limited time, focusing on the newer section of the churchyard and the area near the Angel of Love sculpture by the arched entrance.

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Volunteer Support

We are deeply thankful for our small but dedicated volunteer group, who meet on Monday mornings (10am–12pm). Though just three in number, they make a significant impact—mowing the grass around the church building, pruning where needed, and caring for the space as a ministry of love. After a recent campaign, two new volunteers have joined us—one of whom will be focusing on the War Memorial Graves.

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We are so grateful for their time and care. However, with such a small team, the long-term sustainability of this work is fragile. We warmly invite others to join in. There are tasks to suit all capabilities—from regular gardening to one-off clear-ups.

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Changes to the Older Section of the Churchyard

Another part of the churchyard affected by external changes is the older section, which runs alongside Bear Hill. For many years, this area was maintained by the Probation Service, whose work was an enormous gift. In May this year, we were devastated to learn that government cuts mean they can no longer support us.

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After an unsuccessful local campaign for volunteers, we faced a difficult decision: we had to let this area grow over.

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We shared this message in Grapevine:

“Over the years, our churchyard has been lovingly tended by a wonderful team of volunteers. In more recent times, we’ve also been especially grateful for the support of the Probation Service. Their efforts have made an invaluable difference, helping to ensure that this sacred space remains a place of peace, memory, and connection for our whole community.”

 

We remain committed to caring for the area as best we can and have now designated it under the Caring for God’s Acre scheme. This national movement encourages us to see churchyards as both sacred and ecological spaces—allowing grass and wildflowers to grow, supporting pollinators and birds, and protecting biodiversity.

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We hope to mow a central pathway through the length of the older section, with side paths added as and when we have support. In time, we aim to divide the area into five manageable zones.

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Two further ideas are being explored:

• Community Tidy-Up Mornings, twice a year

• A proposal to seek support for managing and enhancing the wilding of the space

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Both depend entirely on volunteers. If you continue to tend a loved one’s grave in this area, please do so—it remains your special place of remembrance. Do take care, as some areas are uneven underfoot.

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Call for Volunteers

If you could offer even a little time—occasionally or regularly—we would be delighted to welcome you. From pruning to path clearing, from mowing to general tidying, there’s something for everyone.
 

Please contact the church office to find out more.

 

Call for Financial Support

Maintaining the churchyard costs several thousand pounds a year. Every donation helps us continue to offer a beautiful, respectful and ecologically rich space for our community.

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To donate directly to our Churchyard Fund, please use the secure link below or scan the QR code:

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Donate Here
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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If you’d prefer to donate in another way or set up regular giving, please contact our Treasurer, Michelle Read— treasurer@thearkalvechurch.co.uk

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Thank You

Thank you for your care, your prayers, and your support.

Together, we can ensure that St Laurence Churchyard remains a place of peace, reflection, memory, and life for generations to come.