A CHURCHYARD has become so full that religious leaders plan to bury people in graves that are already in use.

Bosses at St Mary’s Church in Warsash are awaiting approval from the Diocese of Portsmouth to begin holding new burials in unmarked graves that are more than 100 years old.

After 145 years of use the churchyard is almost full and as the only church in the area which has a usable churchyard, St Mary’s said it was the only way to keep having burials.

This involves digging into graves, but not as deep as the original occupants, and burying the deceased on top.

St Mary’s also has plans to create a Garden of Remembrance in the churchyard where ashes can be interred and names recorded in a book.

Churchwarden Roger Clear said: “One of the significant ways in which we serve our community is through the churchyard, where all who die in the parish have the right to be buried.

“We know there are a number of unmarked graves where it is impossible to identify who is buried in them. There is a centuries-old practice of re-using grave plots and we plan to introduce this.

“The current regulations allow such ‘over-burial’ for graves over 50 years old, but given our village life and local long memories, we would only over-bury above graves over 100-years-old, which are unmarked, with unknown remains.

“Any remains discovered when preparing graves would be reinterred with suitable dignity and prayers.”

People in Warsash have not been disturbed by the idea recycling grave plots.

David Sinclair, 39, a painter and decorator from Osborne Road, said: “I wasn’t even aware that this was an issue – I guess you just take for granted that when you die there will be somewhere to put your body.

“I can see why people would have an attachment with the church and want to have their body kept on the grounds.”

Alan Fisk, 75, from Church Road, said: “It doesn’t really worry me that they are running out of space as I have already planned to get cremated.

“I do feel sorry for those people though who do want their own little space, but it isn’t always possible.”

There are also financial benefits to the plan as once a graveyard is full, its upkeep becomes the responsibility of the council and taxpayers, rather than the church.

St Mary’s has asked anyone with queries or comments on the scheme to contact them on enquiries@stmarywarsash.org.uk before November 28.