The case concerned three petitions for faculties to reserve double grave spaces in West Lane Cemetery, which was almost full, having space for only approximately two more years of burials. The petitions had taken over three years to come to determination, partly, it appeared, because of a change of incumbent in the parish. The chancellor considered the delay and consequent pastoral implications in determining the petitions. All three petitioning couples lived in the parish and thus had a right to burial in the parish which would crystallise upon their deaths. The petitions were supported by the incumbent, church wardens and parochial church council. The factor of greatest significance, however, was evidence that a new burial ground had been created within the parish, which meant that the risk of the reservations prejudicing future rights of other parishioners to burial in the parish in accordance with the rites of the Church of England was rendered minimal. The faculties were granted. [Catherine Shelley]