THE extension of Sidbury Cemetery was consecrated in a ceremony conducted by Bishop Bob Evens this week. Work on the extension began in September 2007 by East Devon District Council, which purchased the land from the Cave family. It was completed earlier

THE extension of Sidbury Cemetery was consecrated in a ceremony conducted by Bishop Bob Evens this week.

Work on the extension began in September 2007 by East Devon District Council, which purchased the land from the Cave family.

It was completed earlier this year and 300 grave spaces and a new ashes interment area for cremated remains were created on the site.

Of the new extension, land for 280 graves was consecrated, leaving space for 20 unconsecrated graves for the burial of different denominations.

According to EDDC, the extension should provide sufficient space for the area's needs over the next 20 years.

Reverend Rik Peckham, Graham Liverton, chairman of EDDC, as well as other members of the community, including district, county and town councillors, attended the ceremony on Tuesday.

The Rt Revd Bob Evens, Bishop of Crediton, said to the congregation: "We are doing something for the benefit of people who aren't here today but will find this place.

"This becomes a special place because we offer it, Christians believe, to God and God brings some of his presence here."

Mr Liverton then read the petition to consecrate before prayers were said and the ceremony took place.

Bishop Evens then led the clergy in a complete circuit of the ground in an anti-clockwise direction and then the sentence of consecration was read.

After the ceremony, people gathered at Sidbury Village Hall where refreshments were provided by Sidbury WI.

Graham Liverton, chairman of East Devon District Council, speaking after the consecration said: "I became involved in this when I was the Portfolio Holder for the Environment and I'm glad to see it to fruition.

"We are very grateful to the Cave family and Sir John Cave for letting us aquire this land.

"It is a part of history extending a cemetery and when we do come to a final resting place-what a wonderful site.