As the Town Council continues to review its service delivery for residents in response to COVID-19, measures in relation to burial arrangements at Hailsham Cemetery have been introduced to protect the local community.
Hailsham Cemetery in Ersham Road will remain open for graveside burials only, with burial services being attended by a maximum of six mourners, from the immediate family. This is in line with Government advice.
Cemetery grounds are open as usual from dawn to dusk, but the chapels will remain closed until further notice. The interment of cremated remains is all also suspended for the time being.
While Hailsham Cemetery remains open for graveside burials and to visitors/mourners, people MUST heed government advice relating to social distancing:
“The measures we have in place are particularly important to protect those at higher risk of infection from COVID-19, such as the elderly and those with underlying health conditions,” said Cllr Richard Grocock, chairman of the Town Council’s Assets Committee.
“We are advising funeral directors and families that, as per Government guidelines, only immediate family should be present at the burial – this currently being limited to 6 people.”
Maintenance Operative Christian Letschka commented: “All those present at graveside burials must follow the social distancing guidelines imposed by the relevant government agencies. Any person who is experiencing COVID-19 symptoms or who are self-isolating should not attend.”
“Mourners will be asked to stand 2-3 metres away from the grave and commitals will be conducted as quickly as possible. Thereafter, mourners are asked to leave the graveside immediately and avoid any contact with each other.”
Town Clerk John Harrison said: “We recognise this is a distressing time for anyone who has lost a loved one. But we cannot emphasise enough the importance of sticking to these measures and restrictions on service. They are all being put in place to protect not only members of staff who helping to carry out this critical service, but also to protect the public.”
Members of the public can still get in touch with the burial services team by calling Hailsham Town Council on 01323 841702 or emailing david.saxby@hailsham-tc.gov.uk.
Terry Hall, Communications Officer
Hailsham Town Council, Market Street, Hailsham, East Sussex, BN27 2AE
Telephone: 01323 841702 | Email: terry.hall@hailsham-tc.gov.uk