Before a burial takes place, we always check the grave which includes lining it with hay to soften the austere-looking clay or shale floor. Checking the grave at Gloucester Cemetery just before a burial, we noticed movement in the grave bottom – and saw a bright green frog hopping about. We could never in good conscience have lowered a coffin onto it, so there was nothing for it but to jump down into the grave and liberate it back into the longer grass beyond the green astroturf surrounding the grave. On checking with Gloucester Cemetery Office afterwards, we are pleased to report they confirmed that before filling in the grave they always check for any wildlife that may have inadvertently taken up residence.
Life in the grave
