CLANFIELD worshipper June Kessell lost her dear husband Laurence last year after 58 happy years of marriage.

June Kessell with Canon Gill Hill, vicar of Clanfield and Catherington, on the site of the proposed garden of remembrance

As a member of St James’ Church, Clanfield, she hoped her husband’s ashes could be laid to rest in its churchyard, which is near enough for her to visit. But the churchyard is full and the nearest alternative – All Saints’ Church, Catherington – is too far away, as she can no longer drive.

Now church leaders have a solution for June and other families who have been bereaved. The parish aims to create a garden of remembrance in a corner of the grounds at St James’ Church.

Stones, gravel and paths will be laid and a beautiful stone cross placed at the centre of the garden to provide comfort for bereaved families. The garden will also include benches and an arbour made by one of the congregation.

And Mrs Kessell said: “When it is finished, this will be such a lovely place for Laurence’s ashes to rest, and such an area of peace and calm for the local villagers to use.”

An appeal has been launched for £6,000 towards the £9,500 cost of the project. Worshippers are holding a weekend of activities, starting tomorrow (Sept 28) when they hope to complete fundraising for the garden and also raise £30,000 for urgent repairs to the church hall.

It includes prayer tomorrow (Sept 28) night, music and a gift day on Saturday (Sept 29) and a Sunday (Sept 30) thanksgiving service. Anyone who would like to contribute can send donations to the parish office at 330 Catherington Lane, Catherington, Hants, PO8 0TD.