'It's sacred land': Upset over festival in Suckley graveyard

Suckley BFG has been held in St John the Baptist Church in Suckley for the past eight years but one parishioner is now calling for it to be moved.

Garston Phillips, whose family has lived in the village since 1840, said the graveyard should be treated as sacred land and having live music and alcohol among the graves is disrespectful.

But organisers said it is respectful and sensitively organised.

St John the Baptist Church in Suckley. (Image: Newsquest) Catherine Armstrong, event organiser, said the festival takes place among graves over 100 years old, and the newer graves are cordoned off. 

Mr Phillips also claims there was an incident last year in which one resident could not access her loved one's ashes, which are placed at the front of the church, due to a stall.

"I don't think it should happen and I think it is appalling," he said.

"It has roused so many people.

The ashes are positioned at the front of the church. (Image: Newsquest) "It is sacred land whether the graves are 200 years old, 10 years or five minutes.

"It is disrespectful and I think a terrible thing to happen."

The origin of Suckley BFG comes from the church fete which used to be held around the church grounds until it evolved to embrace Suckley Hop Shed, harvest time and local bands.

Mr Phillips is next to one of the graves, which was put in place between 1971 and 1979. (Image: Newsquest) Ms Armstrong said: "Some elements of our festival take place in the grounds at the front of the church where all graves (except one) are well over a hundred years old.

"Any dancing and playing by children is done on the open grassy areas and not once have we suffered from ill behaviour or disrespect to anything in the church or its grounds. 

"It is locals who attend this small village event and they have always been very respectful."

She added that the section for memorials to those who have been cremated is located along the front of the church building, and access to it has always been open for visitors.

Mr Phillips is disappointed the festival is still taking place. (Image: Newsquest) "We apologised for any inadvertent stepping off the grass and, in our plans for this year’s festival, have organised for that area to also be fenced off, but still allowing access for those who require it," she added.

The Archdeacon of Worcester, Mark Badger, said: “The Suckley Festival has been run successfully for a number of years without complaint and raises significant funds for a community charity.

"It is held in the most ancient part of the churchyard and the committee run the event very sensitively and respectfully.

"I’m sorry that anyone felt unable to get to a grave, but after being made aware of possible issues last year, the committee is making even greater efforts to ensure that all modern graves are accessible.

"I don’t believe this fun, free family event is contrary to the mission of the church, and I hope that lots of people will enjoy it again this year.”

Suckley BFG will take place on September 21.