Peaceful Haven is Fitting Final Resting Place

Work to create a special area where the bereaved can remember their loved ones has been completed at Heywood Cemetery.

The Woodland Memorial Garden, which was designed for the scattering of cremated remains into one of five tree meadow areas, was first opened on 30 August 2009 and dedicated by representatives of local Heywood Churches. Further improvements, funded by Heywood Township Committee,
have now been completed with the addition of new facilities and improved signage and information.

Councillor Jacqui Beswick, Cabinet Member for Housing and Environment, said: “This beautiful woodland memorial garden provides a peaceful modern setting for people to commemorate their loved ones following cremation, whilst offering greater local choice to the bereaved. It is also a haven for wildlife and offers a ‘return to nature’ for those who wish their final resting place to be amongst trees, birds, mammals and the natural environment.”

A memorial plaque can be erected on wooden pillars which form the centrepiece of the garden and fresh flowers placed in the granite stone table.

A path leads from the memorial area to a viewpoint, whichlooks out over Midge Hall valley and the river Roche and a new wooden bench in keeping with the style of the garden has been provided to sit and contemplate.

If you would like to scatter the remains of your loved ones in the gardens or erect a memorial plaques please contact a member of staff at Bereavement Services who will be pleased to help you arrange this. Further information application forms and details of fees and charges are available from Bereavement Services, Rochdale Cemetery, Bury Road, Rochdale, OL11 4DG, call 01706 645219 or email gwen.coulthurst@rochdale.gov.uk