Blessing for new cemetery
Burial ground dedicated
A consecration ceremony has been held for the new cemetery at Balvalachlan which will serve Callander and surrounding villages.
Callander Cemetery has been in existence for over 100 years and the burial ground was nearing full capacity, with no option to extend the facility.
In 2016 consultants for Stirling Council said the existing cemetery was expected to run out of lair space within two years.
The council purchased land off the A81 Mollins Road at Balvalachlan, located within the Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park.
In time the new cemetery will offer a range of features in addition to traditional interment.
There will be dedicated sections for the interment of cremated remains, and eco-friendly burials will be available in a woodland section.
The new cemetery has 49 car parking spaces, including six disabled spaces, while a new bus stop has also been created on the A81 opposite the facility.
Council leader Scott Farmer said: “This excellent new facility will provide an essential service for communities.
“Saying our final goodbyes to a loved one is never easy but this new cemetery in such an idyllic location will help ease that experience for our families. The site chosen is one of outstanding beauty.”
Evelyn Tweed, SNP councillor for Trossachs added. “The council is keen for the community to actively enjoy the new area and there is talk of a community orchard which would be wonderful in this backdrop. There will also be areas for quiet contemplation.”
Trossachs and Teith Tory councillor, Martin Earl, who attended the ceremony, said: “This was a very special ceremony.
“This new burial ground will serve Callander and the surrounding communities well for years to come in this beautiful setting.
“The words spoken by the two ministers and Lesley from the Humanist Society were well chosen and extremely fitting for such an occasion.”
There is talk of a community orchard which would be wonderful