A volunteer group
The idea for the ‘Friends’ group originated with Jan Holben, Richard Grundy ( Jan’s partner), Peter Anderson (Historian) and Giles Barnard (District Council Community Safety Officer).
Noticing how badly some of the graves had been neglected when visiting the old Folkestone cemetery for a Remembrance Ceremony Jan (as Chairman of the District Council at that time), Richard, Peter and Giles discussed what could be done to save this lovely place which tells a unique story of Folkestone – and the idea of ‘Friends of old Folkestone cemetery’ grew from this discussion.
Constituted: On 21st July 2016 the ‘Friends of old Folkestone cemetery’ become formally constituted with Chairman Jan Holben, Treasurer Hugh Barker and Secretary Margaret Care. Committee members: Richard Grundy, Ross and Stephen Harrison, Cathy Westbrook.
Work sessions: We meet up in the cemetery for work on Saturdays 10.30 – 1.30 throughout the year weather permitting. Always wear appropriate clothing for the weather and work (to keep arms and legs protected from brambles, etc.) and good strong shoes or boots (not sandals or open shoes). Through the summer months we sometimes meet up on a weekday too – but members are always advised in advance of any changes to our work schedule.
It is a good idea to bring your favourite secateurs and garden gloves if you have them, although we will provide tools and gloves if you have none. The type of work we do is mostly cutting down ivy, brambles and self seeded scrubby bushes which have sprouted up everywhere and you can do as little or as much as is comfortable for you. A first aid kit is always available.
With a little help from our friends The ‘Friends’ volunteers cannot do everything on their own, they need help from people with experience and expertise and they work closely with local and national organisations and partnerships to achieve their objectives. Some of those partners include: Folkestone & Hythe District Council, Shorncliffe Trust, Folkestone History Society, Folkestone Town Council, Folkestone & District Family History Society