Cemetery Wardens Reappointed as Improvements Continue at Hailsham Cemetery

Hailsham Town Council has reappointed Councillors Anne Marie Ricketts and Anne Blake-Coggins as Cemetery Wardens, continuing their role as ambassadors for Hailsham Cemetery and working closely with council staff to help maintain and enhance the much-valued community facility.

The Cemetery Wardens regularly visit the cemetery in Ersham Road, liaising with the Cemetery Superintendent and Burials Officer to monitor standards, identify improvement opportunities and ensure the site remains a peaceful, welcoming place for visitors.

Their reappointment comes as the Town Council continues a programme of investment at the cemetery, which has seen significant improvements made in recent years. These include the refurbishment of both Gardens of Remembrance, improvements to pathways and visitor facilities, restoration work to the historic chapel, the creation of additional ashes burial plots and, more recently, the introduction of a dedicated pet ashes burial area.

A former unused building has also been transformed into a visitor waiting room, while grounds maintenance services are now carried out in-house by Town Council staff to ensure consistently high standards across the site.

Further improvements are planned in the coming months, focusing on the cemetery chapel. Following the recent installation of new lighting and heating systems, work will include redecorating the interior, installing new carpeting and replacing ageing pews with modern seating to provide greater flexibility and comfort for funeral services and remembrance events.

A dedicated remembrance area will also be created, featuring a Book of Remembrance and a display for the chapel’s original historic bell.

“Being a Cemetery Warden is about ensuring this remains a place of dignity, reflection and remembrance for everyone who visits,” said Councillor Anne Blake-Coggins. “It’s important that we regularly monitor the site, listen to feedback from families and work with officers to make continual improvements that respect both the cemetery’s heritage and the needs of the community.”

Fellow Cemetery Warden Councillor Anne Marie Ricketts added: “The role allows us to act as a direct link between the Council, cemetery staff and residents. We’ve seen significant investment in recent years, and it’s rewarding to help guide future improvements that make the cemetery more welcoming, accessible and sympathetic for those visiting loved ones.”

Chair of the Council’s Assets Management Committee, Councillor Dave Chapman, said: “Our Cemetery Wardens play an important role by carrying out regular visits and helping identify where further improvements can be made. Their commitment, together with the work of our officers and works staff, helps ensure Hailsham Cemetery remains a well-maintained public space in the town and continues to meet the expectations of residents.”

Operations and Facilities Manager Tony Lee commented: “Working closely with the Cemetery Wardens enables us to respond proactively to maintenance issues and plan future investment. Their local knowledge and regular presence at the cemetery are invaluable in helping us maintain high standards while continuing to improve the facilities available for visitors and bereaved families.”

Hailsham Cemetery is generally open daily from dawn until dusk. Anyone wishing to locate a burial plot or obtain further information can contact the Town Council’s Burials Officer on 01323 841702 (Monday to Friday, 9am-4pm) or email enquiries@hailsham-tc.gov.uk.