Some early spring flowers are beginning to bloom in Ely cemetery. On the left is Winter Aconite, also known as the "Early Spring Bee Flower" (Eranthis hyemalis). This is a perennial plant which flowers from January to March, thrives in woodland, hedgerows and shady borders and is perfect for pollinators. On the right, is probably some Pulmonia, known as Common Lugwort. This plant likes deep shade, flowering from February to March and attracts the solitary, hairy-footed bee, one of the first bees to emerge in early spring. Both of these flowers can be seen in the shady, wooded area of the cemetery that runs along Beech Lane. 

When the Friends of Ely Cemetery was founded, one of its aims was to find out more about the people who have been laid to rest there. To this end, we intend to publish a series of mini biographies on our website, researched and written by our members, illuminating the lives of Ely residents past. The first of these has been prepared by Chris Phillips and looks at the fascinating life of John Newstead (1836-1913) whose gravestone intriguingly records his role as an "Indian Mutiny Veteran".  Click here to read the full account!