Eastham’s natural burial ground holding open weekend after £350,000 development

Jul 6 2011 by Staff Reporter, Bromborough and Bebington News

EASTHAM’S natural burial ground is opening its gates to the public this weekend to show the results of a £350,000 development.

The two-day event at Mayfields Remembrance Park will include a dedication service on Saturday conducted by the Reverend Beth Glover from St Mary’s Church, Eastham, and a release of doves in the park grounds.

The open days will mark the official opening of a new funeral service room with views across the River Mersey, set within the remembrance park’s 18 acres of developing woodland.

The future of Mayfields Park was left hanging in the balance in 2009 after its previous owners ran out of money.

One member of staff stayed at her post unpaid to tend to the plots.

After months of negotiations the burial ground was purchased by Co-operative Funeralcare in November 2009.

It is one of just a handful of woodland burial sites in the region, with relatives given the option of planting a tree or shrub in memory of loved ones rather than the traditional headstone.

Phil Williams, Funeral Director at Mayfields Park, said: “Everyone is welcome to attend on either or both days to meet the team and to take the opportunity to have a guided tour of the centre and grounds.”

The dedication service is at 2pm on Saturday and will include readings from other local clergy and a humanist officiant.

The Mayor of Wirral Councillor Moira McLaughlin will officially open Mayfields Park at 2.45pm, followed by the release of doves.

Between 11am and 4.30pm on Sunday there will be brass band music from the Co-operative Funeralcare Band North West and wicker coffin weaving demonstrations.

There will also be flower and gardening advice from experts from Knowsley National Wildflower Centre and face painting for children.

All funds raised on the day will go to Mencap.