On Wednesday the 3rd
of February 2016, I took the opportunity to enjoy a pleasant social evening with
friends in Nottingham, using the usual monthly meeting of the Nottingham
Empyrean Pagan Interest Group as an excuse for the same. This particular month
saw a visit from Steve Barnes, the manager of the Tithe Green Burial Ground.
This green and natural burial ground is part of the Oxton Estate, situated
south of Edwinstowe, east of Newstead Abby and close to Oxton village on the Old
Rufford Road (A614).
The
primary focus in this presentation was the ethical and ecological elements of a
natural, green burial. To cover this and explore the subject, it was necessary
for Mr Barnes to place the Tithe Green Burial Ground in context. Comparing
factors influencing the history and present running of the venture, with other
burial grounds.
Some
such grounds may have less firm rules and guidelines, bearing upon what is and
is not permitted. Some are run along similar lines and some may even be stricter.
An important factor being the preparation of the body, avoiding preservatives
such as formaldehyde. Nor is glue or varnish permitted in the manufacture of
the casket, as both contain chemicals not desired for a green burial. Even the
clothing of the deceased and the lining of the casket if appropriate, are
required to be of a natural fibre.
These
regulations on first examination appear unnecessarily strict but in point of
fact, the necessity becomes apparent with closer scrutiny. If indeed we are
attempting to create a natural burial and therefore, a green space, whether it
is part of the woodland or a meadow site; then what is the point of interring preservatives?
The casket and the contents are deliberately set to decay in a natural manner
and such would prevent that desired aim.
The
marking of each grave or tree planted in memoriam, may be designated by a slate
plaque of a standard size. These when laid upon the grave, will eventually have
grass grow over them. Those placed upon a wooden post in front of a tree, will
once the post has rotted, fall to the ground and be covered in the same manner.
One
noted rule is upon the specifications of the trees permitted, the saplings are grown
in Nottinghamshire and the permitted species have been chosen with advice from
the Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust. The six specially selected tree species, are
intended to represent the indigenous fauna of Sherwood Forrest and therefore, Nottinghamshire
itself. The six trees listed as permitted are; the oak, the rowan, the birch,
the lime, the wild cherry and the pine. The deliberate mixture of these trees
will, in partnership with the meadow sites and the planting of wildflowers, create
an environment favoured towards wildlife.
Many
if not all of us present, did not at the beginning of the evening; have a full
understanding of the requirements, which lie behind the management of such a
burial ground. That lack of knowledge and insight, was expertly addressed by Mr
Barnes. The evening ran over by a considerable time, as he fielded questions
and explored particular points in greater detail, than at first expected or
discussed.
The
Tithe Green Burial Ground presents for those wishing to take up the opportunity,
a viable green, natural and ethical choice for burial, irrespective of
religious persuasion or any other social factor. The presentation by Mr Barnes
was surprisingly down to earth, peppered with both serious and amusing
anecdotes, whilst maintaining a highly informative element.
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