¨ We are continuing to use a new soil product that has been designed solely for crematoria which is scientifically proven to offset the toxicity in cremated remains, releasing essential nutrients that allow plant life to flourish. We are hugely optimistic that this will massively improve the health of our roses and shrubs. Between last November and now we have replaced 165 standard roses along with numerous other shrubs.
¨ We have completed the installation of 3 concrete beams within the newer sections of the Oxford Burial Ground. These are essentially a permanent foundation for headstones. The center point of each grave is marked helping with alignment for grave diggers and memorial masons.
¨ We have a memorial brochure which largely copies the information shown on our website, colchestercrematorium.co.uk . The website also features other useful information including our opening times and maps, plus a link to our Online Book of Remembrance. All entries were successfully scanned last year and can be viewed online via a date or surname search.
¨ We have recently installed new signs on the crematorium building hopefully providing greater clarity and directions for mourners.
¨ This Summer our memorial safety inspector will return to re-test all the headstones that were deemed unsafe last year to ascertain how many have subsequently been made safe. A common concern that has been raised is whether the hand test itself broke the seal between the base and headstone leading to a failed result. This concern was referred to BRAMM (British Register of Accredited Memorial Masons) who commented as follows—’memorials should be able to withstand a force of 25kg (far in excess of the force applied during the hand test), if the seal was broken during this process, under the Sale of Goods Act 1977, goods should be fit for purpose and therefore pass the hand test process. Depending upon the length of time that the headstone has been in situ the memorial mason should be asked to re-fix the headstone.
¨ If anyone has a bit of spare time and would like to join our existing volunteer in carrying out some litter picking around the Cemetery please get in contact with us.
¨ If you would like to be buried near to existing family members in the older parts of the cemetery please get in contact or let your Funeral Director know, we can’t promise anything but we will definitely look into it for you.
¨ The programme of tree works in the scatter lawns of the Gardens of Remembrance has been completed. The majority of trees have been crown raised including the removal of any deadwood, unfortunately due to overcrowding some trees were in poor health and were felled. All work was approved and overseen by the Council’s Parks, Countryside and Open Spaces Team. We now plan to carry out additional grounds work to enhance grass growth. We thank you for your patience and understanding whilst these essential works are carried out.
¨ As we approach the hotter and drier months we have ceased planting any trees, shrubs and roses until the Autumn. During this period we will be keeping a list of any new or replacement plants that are needed.