Smarden Church and Biddenden Church: churchyard burials

Churchyard burials at St Michael Smarden or All Saints Biddenden

We appreciate that the times when people make use of them are always sad and emotional – so therefore we need to clear about the rules and regulations concerning churchyards, to make the care of the churchyards as stress-free as possible.

For information on funeral services, please see the Funerals page.

Biddenden:

In Biddenden the churchyard is open for both burial of coffins and ashes. Space for the burial of coffins is limited and therefore only applications from individuals who have lived in Biddenden may be considered. For burial of ashes no residence rules apply. Please contact Rev'd Alex Bienfait to discuss this further, on 01580 291454.

Families seeking permission for a burial need to be aware that we are bound by strict regulations regarding the appearance and type of monuments that are used to remember those who have died. In particular memorials with kerbs and chippings are not permitted. Neither should there be the planting of any shrub or tree over a grave. A full copy of the regulations is available to download go to Canterbury Diocese regulations. Before any burial is permitted families must sign and return the completed application form.

The regulations seek to provide a careful balance between the special nature of the churchyard, of its importance in the community as a whole, and the aspirations of families and friends of those whose earthly remains are to be interred there.

Smarden:

Smarden churchyard is closed for the burial of coffins, but remains open for the burial of ashes. For burials at the cemetery in Smarden, please contact the parish clerk at Smarden Parish Council.

Upkeep of Biddenden and Smarden churchyards:

The upkeep of both churchyards is a substantial voluntary effort. Fortunately we have a team of helpers, but if you are spare a couple hours a month mowing a section of the churchyard or one of the other jobs, we would be pleased to hear from you. In Biddenden please contact Chris Cox 01580 291298, in Smarden please contact Brian Bristow 01233 770564.