By virtue of their antiquity many churchyards and cemeteries can support habitats, which are relics of former countryside and may therefore support a wide range of rare or uncommon plant species. Often the soil between graves has been left undisturbed by man for many years. In the past sheep have grazed the grass. This would have prevented coarse grasses from spreading and swamping wild flowers.

St Peter's Church grounds have never been enriched with artificial fertilisers and it is the current policy not to use weed-killers, which further encourages biodiversity.

In this age when natural habitats are continually being lost to development, churchyards such as this one is increasingly important to Britain’s wild flora and fauna.

In tending this ancient Churchyard, we hope to attract wildlife by reducing the frequency of mowing in certain areas and planting native trees and shrubs wherever possible.

We aim to mow according to four distinct regimes to suit both people and wildlife. These include areas of short mown lawn around the Church and current burial areas. Medium length grass areas around the ‘Lower New Graves’ and two areas of long grass forming spring and summer meadows to the south and east of the Church. These areas will be cut after spring/summer flowers have set seed. In addition, there are strips of tussock grass around part of the perimeter.

Want to help?

*On the first Saturday of the month (March-October) we have a ‘Operation Churchyard Day’ when people volunteer an hour or two of their time to carry out gardening tasks.

*We would be grateful if people refrain from using weed killer around graves.

*Later in the year, we plan to carry out a botanical survey of the space around the Church. Look out for a poster asking for willing helpers! In the meantime, if you have an interest in ecology, gardening or the great outdoors and would like to help develop the Churchyard. Please contact our Church Council Secretary, Jim Cable, on 0784 0615695.

You are welcome to picnic in the Church grounds. Please recycle your waste in the bins provided by the tower. This is a space for conversation, exploration and quiet reflection.

Our first ‘Operation Churchyard’ Day of 2020 is Saturday 7th March, from 10am onwards.