In St Stephen’s Churchyard, Congleton, are ten War Graves, the final resting places of servicemen from Congleton who lost their lives as a result of the First and Second World Wars. Some of them were as young as 20 years old.
On Sunday, St Stephen’s congregation formally thanked its member, Ken Fieldhouse (81), who has voluntarily tended the graves, including weeding and grass-cutting, for over 20 years. At the beginning there was a team of volunteers, but as the years have passed, they have either died or moved away, leaving Mr Fieldhouse working on his own to ensure the graves are accessible, clean and well-maintained.
As part of the expression of thanks, Town Councillor Susan Mead read a letter from the Commonwealth War Graves Commission (CWCG), saying: “Thank you Ken for all you have done in support of the CWCG, we hope you feel proud of your efforts…You have enabled visitors to read the names and details of ten servicemen of the First and Second World War, whose final resting place is in St Stephen’s Churchyard, ensuring their stories are kept alive.”
The Town Mayor, Kay Wesley, then thanked Mr Fieldhouse on behalf of the entire community, and the congregation showed their appreciation with warm applause.
Rev Ian Enticott said: “Ken is a quiet and unassuming member of our congregation. He and his wife Sue do a lot behind the scenes to keep things running smoothly never expecting any thanks or recognition, it is a real pleasure to see him receive this accolade today and for him to know how much he is appreciated.”
Cllr Wesley, her Consort Mike and Cllr Mead were given a tour of the War Graves by Mr Fieldhouse and his wife Sue, who also helps out by tending the bedding plants in the churchyard.
Cllr Wesley reflected: “It is important that we remember the sacrifices made by servicemen and women, especially at a time when conflicts are still raging across the world. Without Mr Fieldhouse’s efforts these graves, some of which are in remote corners of the churchyard, would be lost. Ken’s quiet dedication to his task is both heart-warming and reflective of the best of Congleton. I am so proud we have volunteers like Ken in our community.”
Cllr Mead added: “I’m working with the Commonwealth War Graves Commission to see if we can get some more help for Ken. If anyone would like to join the team and spend the occasional hour or two strimming and weeding, please get in touch with me.”
Cllr Mead can be contacted at: cllrsusan.mead@congleton-tc.gov.uk
