An event which focused on the environmental aspects of Mill Road Cemetery
In participation with Histon Rd and Ascension Cemeteries FOMRC organised a Green Day in the Cemetery on Sunday July 15th. The day was fine and welcomed many people enjoyed the various tours and activities. Winter Willow (connected to Winter Comfort) came to demonstrate their willow weaving and brought with them a woven coffin which was decorated by the members of the Lifecraft Floristry Group. We are most grateful to Tracy O’Leary and Andrew and Patsy Dellar.
Children enjoyed the story telling of Marion Leeper, and the craft activities led by Nikki Smith. whilst a nature table and tree trail allowed people to learn more about the many species which flourish in the cemetery.
There were several tours which were much enjoyed by all who participated. Frank Dean led an Introductory Wildlife Tour, whilst Philip Oswald concentrated on the Flora.Tricia Wright’s tour focussed on the Inscriptions and Iconography of the memorials and Mark Powell showed the huge variety of lichens which flourish on them. Guy Belcher led a Bug Hunt which was much enjoyed.
Michael Downs from TreeWorks was on hand all day to lead tours about the remarkable trees in the cemetery; a high spot for many was the chance to try out some of the climbing equipment.
We were delighted that Parkside School brought along their Drumming Group which was hugely popular. The talented performers showed off their dancing skills, as well as their ability to follow the most intricate of rhythms. Many thanks are due to Kay Blayney and Rebecca Lewis for arranging this
The Mayor, Cllr Sheila Stewart, paid us a visit and was interested in everything that she saw. She thanked all those who had given time and energy to making the day a success.
The day concluded with a service led by the Rev Margaret Widdess, with an address from the Rev Nigel Cooper, dean of ARU.
FOMRC thanks the Parishes Committee for their permission to hold this event and for the Concluding Service. They thank the City Council and Sustainable Cities for their support, and they acknowledge their huge gratitude to Sarah Tovell, City Council Green Spaces Officer, without whose endless help from the very beginning of the planning process none of this would have happened.