This Saturday 17th August, we will be raking up ‘hay’ in Monmouth Cemetery, and we would really appreciate a hand.

Why are we making hay in August? The cemetery is very rich in wildlife, insects and flora, in particular. This is largely due to the poor soil and little disturbance. Over the last few years we have requested that a particular area where the very first graves were placed and the ground is very uneven and difficult to mow, is only strimmed once a year, after the flowers are over and the seeds have set. We then rake and remove the cut, before it can rot down. This regime keeps the soil poor, less lush and encourages wildflower and the rarer grasses. Butterflies and a huge variety of pollinators can be seen on a sunny day as a result: an essential part of the greater ecosystem.

We’ll be at the site, at the top of the cemetery, from 10am till about 2pm. All past and new volunteers will be most welcome. Hot or cold drinks, depending on the weather, will be provided, but please bring a picnic if you want. If you have your own grass rake and gloves, that would be an extra help, but we do have some to share out!

Please phone 07762468903 for any further information. Hope to see you on Saturday.

Anthea Dewhurst (Friends of Monmouth Cemetery)