Council call to Adopt a Grave

8.17.12pm BST (GMT +0100) Tue 7th Aug 2007

An innovative new scheme to Adopt A Grave, and so help preserve the rich heritage of the borough's cemeteries has been launched by Richmond Council.

The graves of the famous are up for adoption including the burial plot in Teddington of "Lorna Doone" author, R. D. Blackmore. Individuals and groups are being invited to adopt graves and help water, weed or even restore plots that are no longer tended or have fallen into disrepair. The scheme includes graves that loved ones are unable to visit through ill health or distance. It is being launched to improve the appearance of the borough's cemeteries and offer schools and children's groups the opportunity to learn about the borough's history. The graves of R.D. Blackmore and former Mayor of Richmond and founding director of Chelsea Football Club, Joseph Theophilus Mears, are among a list of burial plots available to "adopt."

Cllr Martin Elengorn, Cabinet Member for Environment on Richmond Council, said: "We are the first Council in London to launch such a scheme. Due to age or relatives moving away from the area, many of the graves in our cemeteries become overgrown or fall into a state of disrepair. While Council staff maintain the overall appearance of the cemeteries, it is simply not possible to weed, plant or water individual plots. We are therefore appealing to people who may already visit a cemetery on a regular basis, to give a little time and attention to help restore these graves. Schools or children's groups such as the Scouts and Girl Guides could also sign up and use the scheme to learn about the borough's history or promote the benefits of social responsibility. I hope the scheme proves popular and helps keep our cemeteries welcoming and peaceful places to visit."