Friends of Astwood
Our cemeteries need you
We’re reigniting the Friends of Astwood volunteers’ group, which sadly closed in 2014. Without volunteers, our cemeteries couldn’t thrive as a wildlife and visitor haven as well as a working business.
Volunteers come from all walks of life, for all sorts of reasons. You don’t need to be an expert — just someone who cares about our sites and enjoys being part of them.

Ways to get involved
Outdoor volunteers
Help maintain and develop the garden areas, the natural burial area and the brook, and get involved in tree work, wildlife surveys and even basic beekeeping. Learn as you go.
Weekend wardens
Help look after the site at weekends and bank holidays, walking round to help visitors and check all is in order. Work in pairs, with training and equipment provided.
Other volunteers
Lend a hand with events and chapel support on an ad hoc basis. Each year we bring volunteers together to share stories and ideas.
Out on the grounds
- Maintaining and developing the garden areas, especially the old cemetery, natural burial area and brook.
- Controlling invasive plants such as bindweed, mare’s tail, Japanese knotweed, Himalayan balsam and bramble.
- Specialised tree pruning.
- Wildlife surveys.
- Basic beekeeping.