Ceremony held to consecrate new graveyard in Worstead, Norfolk

The consecration of a new section of the graveyard at St Mary’s church in Worstead took place on Tuesday, with the Bishop of Norwich, Graham Usher, leading the religious ceremony.

The bishop lead a small procession to the corners of the grounds, laying down his crosier – a hooked staff carried by bishops – in the shape of a cross to mark out the holy place of rest and to bless the ground.

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The extension of the existing graveyard at the church will double its size and is estimated to offer enough graves for the next 50 years.

David Warner, vicar of Worstead church, said the consecration was a “culmination of a 10-year vision" for the village churchyard.

Mr Warner said: “Over the centuries the grounds have filled up and it’s our commitment to offer those who want to be buried in that place somewhere peaceful and restful to do so.

“Part of the process of that is legal, but as the final act the bishop will come to consecrate the grounds."

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Mr Warner said until the graves are occupied the grounds will offer a place of "peace and joy" where people can enjoy nature.

“Until the ground is needed it becomes a space which is set aside, and we hope it becomes a place of nature, wildlife and beauty as well," he said.

"The Bishop of Norwich is the Church of England lead on environmental matters, so it’s something very close to his heart that churchyards are not just places to lay people to rest, but also places of natural beauty and peace for people.

"It’s part of our responsibility to care for the living but to also give them a place of rest when they are gone."