David Yates

A few words from George Proctor fellow founder of the original Friends of Wardsend Cemetery.

Sad news. One of the early pioneers of the Friends Of Wardsend Cemetery passed away in late January after a ten week illness. David Yates, like Peter Quincey and myself, was one of the three committee members of the group for the early years of the 2000s.

David was the architect of the original friends website and an active member taking part in cemetery tours, groundwork such as clearing the headstones, bulb planting and general clearance. His contribution cannot be underestimated.

Besides being involved with Wardsend he was also on the committee of the Hillsborough Community Development trust until 2006 when the trust closed. His other main interest was Burngreave Cemetery where he actively participated in all aspects of the work there.

Away from volunteering David was a popular publican in Sheffield and Rotherham and was at one time night manager for a building site security company based in the old Mexborough grammar school. He was a man of firm opinions who stood by his word.

Dave’s funeral is today 1th February at Grenoside Crematorium Small Chapel at 12.30pm.

Dave’s family have requested no flowers, instead donations are welcome to the Burngreave chapel and cemetery. Afterwards there will be a buffet at the crematorium tea room.