Pray and display as car park built around grave
AT first it looks like a grave error. One of the parking bays is a final resting place.
But clerics have defended the bizarre layout of the new car park at a historic Midlands church.
St Michael’s Church, Lichfield, the origins of which date back to the 12th century, has created parking spaces for up to 10 cars.
The recently-laid car park is next to the drive which runs from Church Street up to its main door. And that, says the rector, was necessary for young families with children and for older members of the congregation.
But there, in a bed of shale next to the parking spaces, sits a grave and memorial vase to John Yates, protected by two wooden posts. Last week, a notice placed on the grave read: “Please respect my grandfather’s grave – do not drive or walk on it.
“As you can see, it has been damaged by cars in the past.
Thank you so much.”
Builders converted a grassy bank by the graveyard into the new car park to accommodate the increasing number of visitors.
Parishioners are split over the decision to surround the graves with cars.
“If one of my relatives was buried there I would find it highly disrespectful,” said one. “You don’t want to feel you are paying your respects to a grave in a car park because that is exactly what it would be like. I understand the need for extra space for cars, but surely the graves could have been relocated first?”
Simon Baker, Rector of St Michael’s, said a visitor to the grave spoke to those doing the work and “was happy” with the way it was being treated.
“St Michael’s is a growing church with many activities during the week, as well as services on Sundays,” he said.
“Good available car parking is necessary for young families with children and for older members of the congregation.”