¨ Having recently become members of the FBCA (Federation of Burial and Cremation Authorities), we received a site visit and inspection to ensure compliance on numerous key areas. Our inspection took place on 1st May and I am very pleased to announce that we received a Compliance Score of 95.7%.

¨ Our website, colchestercrematorium.co.uk contains a wealth of information from opening times, maps, scheduled funerals, memorials, news and bereavement support groups. In addition to the link to our Online Book of Remembrance, there is now a link to a short virtual tour of the Crematorium.

¨ At the beginning of July our contracted 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.

¨ To enable wheelchair users to access parts of the cemetery for graveside burials we have purchased a ramp. If the ramp is required for a mourner attending a burial please let us or your Funeral Director know in advance.

¨ To enable wheelchair users and children to participate in services in the Crematorium chapel we are purchasing a freestanding height adjustable microphone. If this is likely to be required please let us or your Funeral Director know in advance.

¨  Following the completion of essential trees works within the scatter lawns of our Gardens of Remembrance, we have now carried out further grounds improvement works. This has involved levelling, top dressing and seeding the worst areas hence the scatter lawns currently look quite patchy. The removal of dead trees, crown raising and removal of deadwood has considerably improved the whole area. Light and moisture can now penetrate the area which should improve the health of the turf. Selective watering will be carried out during drier periods.

¨  The Queen Elizabeth Queen Mother memorial wall area is being improved to allow memorial bricks to be dedicated on the back of the existing wall. A new tarmac base will be laid, with a pergola opening through into the Cemetery. We have also taken the opportunity to install a couple of taps to the leading edge of the wall.

¨ If you encounter any anti-social behaviour, see any dangerous trees / branches or notice any damage please report it to the Cemetery & Crematorium Office.

¨  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.

¨ 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.