Gravestone Of Mary Higgins In Churchyard Of St James'S Church

The gravestone of Mary Higgins is a small, rectangular, upright monument made of moulded limestone ashlar, dating from 1756. The top half features two carved angel heads with intertwined collars, surrounded by a stylised rococo design that includes scrolls and acanthus leaves. The lower half has a slightly raised panel with a segmental head and moulded corners, which incorporates the inscription that reads, "In Memory of MARY HIGGINS who died Feb [...] 1756 [...] year of her Age." This gravestone is situated approximately 3.5 metres south of the church tower.

Mary Higgins' gravestone is located in the churchyard of the Grade I listed St James's Church, which dates back to the late 12th century. The churchyard is surrounded on all sides by the church and contains limestone and slate headstones that range from the 17th to the 20th century.

The gravestone is recognized for its mid-Georgian style, its well-preserved form with intact decorative carving, and the legibility of its inscription. Its artistic interest lies in the flowing, stylised rococo design. Additionally, it holds strong group value with the nearby Grade I listed church and two Grade II listed gravestones from the late 17th and early 18th centuries, which are also located just south of the chancel, an area considered prime for burials.