Cemetery caretaker swaps spade for fishing rod (From Gazette & Herald)

Norton cemetery caretaker Malcolm Piercy retires

1:43pm Wednesday 12th September 2012 in News By Karen Darley

Norton ’s cemetery caretaker has retired after almost three decades in the job.

Malcolm Piercy took over the role 27 years ago, after previously working at Malton Cemetery for 10 years.

Town mayor Coun Di Keal said: “Malcolm has done a brilliant job over the years keeping the cemetery neat and tidy, dealing sensitively with bereaved families and carrying out all his work for Norton Town Council to the highest possible standards.

“Members of the public frequently comment on how well kept the cemetery is in Norton and this is testament to the pride that Malcolm has always taken in his job.”

Coun Keal said that alongside managing the cemetery, Malcolm had also carried out a host of other jobs around Norton, including looking after the town’s public spaces and doing all those little jobs that made such a difference in keeping the town looking good.

Norton Town Council recently held a retirement party for Malcolm at the council offices where he was presented with a range of fishing equipment to enjoy using during his retirement.

He will be replaced by Andrew Wrigglesworth, a retained fireman.

Coun Keal said: “Malcolm’s dedication to the job and friendly smile will be sorely missed in the town now that he is swapping his spade for a fishing rod during his retirement – but we are confident that his successor, Andy, will keep up the hard work and keep the cemetery looking good for local residents and visitors.”