GRAVE restorer Steve Davies is seeking private commissions in Jersey to help support the costs of a return visit to work on some of the Island’s historic military memorials.
Mr Davies, a former member of 3rd Battalion, The Royal Green Jackets, and a qualified stonemason, has restored military graves across the Island, paying particular attention to St Saviour’s cemetery, to which he will return in April.
The graveyard is home to what is believed to be the largest collection of graves of servicemen who fought at the Battle of Waterloo, and were later to retire to the Island.
Its historical significance was recognised, following research by former Rector, the Rev Peter Dyson, in the unveiling three years ago of a plaque bearing their names by the Princess Royal.
Mr Davies has completed work on 73 graves but plans further work there and in other cemeteries across the Island which bear the remains of servicemen who fought in different conflicts.
Mr Davies said that the costs of his travel and accommodation had already been met but that he was hoping to raise money for his subsistence in the Island by undertaking private commissions to restore family memorials.
“I undertake all kinds of private work from cleaning and repainting to replacement lettering done on site. The cost varies from £200 to £500 for a full reinstatement,” he said.
Mr Davies can be contacted at: militarygraverestorer@gmail.com
