180th Anniversary Event of the Old Cemetery
On Sunday 10th May, starting at 10.00am (finally finished at 5.30pm) an event was held at Southampton Old Cemetery to mark the 180th anniversary of the cemetery. The Programme was hosted by the Friends of Southampton Old Cemetery (FoSOC), supported by Bereavement Services, represented by Heather White FICCM(Dip)(Hons), Service Manager/Registrar, Bereavement Directorate (Environment and Resident Services).
The event began with the arrival of the Town Crier, Mr Alan Spencer, followed shortly afterwards by the Right Reverend Philip Mounstephen, Bishop of Winchester, accompanied by his wife Ruth and their dog, Noggin. The Lord Mayor, Cllr James Baillie, and the Lady Mayoress, Beccy Baillie, arrived soon after.
The Town Crier then announced the Wessex District Sea Cadets Marching Band, who led a short procession with the Lord Mayor, the Bishop of Winchester and FoSOC Chairman William Ferguson. After the band halted, the Lord Mayor spoke about how truly remarkable it was to stand in the cemetery on this occasion, drawing a link to a similar event held here 180 years ago. He noted that the cemetery began as 10 acres and has since grown to 27 acres, and that it remains active today, cared for by FoSOC in partnership with Bereavement Services. He concluded: “Today, we have all come together in this cemetery as a mark of respect and celebration. Our presence here signifies our collective intention to honour this special place, recognising its rich history and significance.”
The Bishop of Winchester then spoke and reflected on the history of the cemetery, including the role of the Charles Sumner Bishop of Winchester at the time of its consecration, before bringing this part of the ceremony to a close with a prayer.
Further details are on all the events these are under separates headings…starting with 180th Event …. please do check these out
Photos taken by Bruce Larner
