Proposed Closure of St Michael’s Church Churchyard, Heighington, Co DurhamNotice is hereby given that it is the intention of the Secretary of State for Justice, acting on an application by the incumbent and churchwardens, to apply to the Privy Council for an Order requiring the discontinuance of burials in the above churchyard.Provision would be made for the following exceptions: -a. in any vault or walled grave in the churchyard, burial may be allowed but every coffin in such vault or grave must be separately enclosed by stonework or brick work properly cemented;b. in any existing earthen grave in the churchyard, the burial may be allowed of the body of any member of the family of the person or persons previously buried in that grave, but no part of the coffin containing the body shall be less than one metre below the level of the surface of the ground adjoining the grave; andc. in any grave space in which no interment has previously taken place, the burial may be allowed of any person for whom, or any member of the family for which that grave space has been reserved and appropriated, with the exclusive right of burial there, but no part of the coffin containing the body shall be less than one metre below the level of the surface of the ground adjoining the grave.Any representations about the proposed closure should be sent, within 21 days of this publication, to: The Burials, Cremation and Exhumation Policy and Casework Team, Ministry of Justice, Post Point 7.37, 102 Petty France, London SW1H 9AJor email to: coroners@justice.gov.uk (Quoting Reference CC/SEP25/020) Dated: 20 August, 2026
🎼 Raise Your Voice – Lift Your SpiritBe part of something special.Joining a choir is not just about singing—it's about making friends, building confidence, and being part of a welcoming community.St Michael's Church Choir is open to everyone.🎶 All ages welcome🎶 No experience needed🎶 Everyone is encouraged to joinPractice Night: Every Tuesday at 7.00 pm in church.Simply come along or contact Gill Wilson, Choir Leader, on 07767 279763 for more information.A warm welcome awaits!
Run by a dedicated team of volunteers, the Food Bank at St Mary's Community Centre, Cockerton Green, Darlington, has been serving our community for many years, providing vital support to a steady stream of individuals and families facing difficult times. While emergency food parcels offer immediate help, the volunteers also recognise that many people need longer-term support to overcome the challenges they face.Alongside providing food, the team offers guidance and support, directing people to organisations such as Darlington Borough Council, the Samaritans, and Darlington Credit Union, where they can access further advice, practical assistance, and ongoing support.The Food Bank is always grateful for donations of tinned food and other non-perishable items. Every contribution, however small, helps ensure that local people receive the support they need when they need it most.If you would like to contribute to our work in support of the Food Bank, please leave non-perishable food donations inside the box at the back of St Michael’s Church, or deliver them to 30 Highside Road, Heighington. DL5 6PGThank you for your continued kindness, generosity, and support. Together, we can make a real difference to the lives of people in our local community.
Are you able to spend a couple of hours a month in support of St Michael's church community this summer?We are seeking volunteers to join our rota to mow the grass in the churchyard during the grass-growing season.We would welcome a few extra pairs of hands to help us maintain our churchyard, making it a peaceful and welcoming place for all who visit.If you are interested in volunteering, or would like further information, please contact one of the Church Wardens on:07410 583 920.
