Churchyard Policy

The churchyard around St James Church is closed and cared for by Chipping Campden Town Council.  The Parochial Church Council works with the Town Council in maintaining the appearance of the churchyard.

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The Town Council cannot be responsible for maintaining memorials in the churchyard. Checks are carried out from time to time to ensure that memorials have not become hazardous.  If it appears that a memorial is in a dangerous condition, the Town Council may decide that it should be laid on the ground in order to avoid accidents.

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Naturally, families would wish for the graves they look after to be kept in a neat and tidy condition.  It should be noted that additional free-standing features such as toys, pictures, mementoes, etc., are not allowed.

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Except where the design of a headstone includes an integral container for plants or cut flowers, flowers may only be placed in a removable pot, this should not be made of glass.  Wreaths and cut flowers may be placed in such containers or laid on any grave but must be removed as soon as they appear to be withered or dead.

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The Town Council and church may, at their discretion, at any time remove and dispose of any artificial flowers placed in the churchyard. Wreaths or cut flowers will also be removed especially if it is considered that they have deteriorated and/or are unsightly.  No trees or shrubs may be planted without the agreement of the Town Council and Parochial Church Council.