When our charity purchased the cemetery from the United Reformed Church, the top and bottom perimeter walls were in need of significant reconstruction in parts. The church had ensured that all the walls where in a safe condition prior to the sale, but would not carry out any reconstruction. When we approached a building company for a quotation, we were shocked at the huge cost and knew we would never be able to raise enough money for it. We needed a volunteer builder!
In the summer of 2024, we met up with Pauline, a fellow volunteer with local group Hirst Wood Regeneration Group. She knew of a retired dry-stone waller, and gave us the contact details for John. We were delighted when he agreed to come and build a section of dry-stone wall for us over 6 sessions for no charge. But the area along the top perimeter wall first needed to be cleared of fallen stones, vegetation and soil to expose the existing foundations. At around the same time, we welcomed new volunteer Chris who was willing to make repairs to the existing masonry wall which would adjoin the new dry-stone wall.
September saw much activity – the area was cleared by the volunteers and Chris and John started building their respective walls. By the end of October, John had completed his agreed sessions, and luckily, our earlier prayers were answered and newly-retired builder Bob – a friend of Chris’s – joined us as a volunteer. Halleluja!
Bob brought along friend Mark to help, and together with Chris, they put the finishing touches to the masonry wall.
After John’s promised 6 sessions, the dry-stone wall was looking great, but not as high as was needed. Chris stepped up and continued building, reaching the required height by Christmas. The final toppers were cemented into place in the New Year.
Meanwhile, Bob and Mark had been assessing the reconstruction of the bottom perimeter wall, to be known henceforth as ‘The Great Wall of Chapel Walk’…...
We will return to the next section of dry-stone wall at a later date.
Photos kindly provided by Eileen, Chris and Carol