Volunteers’ hard
work earns green space
award for makeover

HOLLINFARE: A ONCE neglected graveyard has been transformed into an award-winning green space thanks to the work of volunteers.

The Friends of Hollinfare Cemetery have thanked volunteers from Rixton, Glazebrook, Irlam and Cadishead, who have worked alongside Warrington Borough Council’s bereavement services.

Over the past three years the site has gone from overgrown to winning Green Flag status for the second year running.

One of the most successful initiatives has been the grave tending scheme where volunteers take responsibility for the upkeep of a grave for £20 a year.

Mandy Eccles, chairman of Friends of Hollinfare Cemetery, said: “The introduction of our grave tending scheme has proved most welcome by relatives of the bereaved who cannot attend their loved ones’ graves.

“Apart from giving relatives peace of mind that their grave is regularly cleaned and sensitively cared for, all money received from the scheme and from other generous donations are used to purchase plants and shrubs to further enhance the look of the cemetery.”

Volunteers range from children to adults with more than 60 years experience.

Newcomers are always made welcome at action days on the last Saturday of each month between February and November from 10am to 2pm.

The community group’s work is facilitated through fundraising and grants from the borough council, Stronger Together, The Hamilton Davies Trust, The Rotary Club of Irlam, Warrington Charities Trust and Community Chest.

This has allowed volunteers to buy tools and equipment including fencing, watering cans, a shelter for visitors, planters and a new bench.

The council’s bereavement services has also introduced security cameras, a notice board and extra water taps.

For more information about Friends of Hollinfare Cemetery, visit rixtonwithglazebrook.net