These beautiful hands, about 6 inches in length, were found by volunteers when clearing the Mendip Hospital Cemetery.

We don't know on whose grave they were placed but it is obvious that whoever placed them there was full of love for their deceased relative.

The cemetery is the resting place for nearly 3,000 souls who were patients at the Asylum. They were paupers so their families were for the most part poor and could not afford a headstone but their graves are marked by numbered, iron markers.

The last chance for a mid week visit to the cemetery before it closes at the end of September until next spring is next Wednesday September 14, 11 am to 4 pm.

Please come and visit this special place and help us to preserve its national uniqueness for posterity.

It has already been saved in 2002 from possible development for housing and the work to maintain it and tell the story is ongoing.

Bring an umbrella if wet, a picnic if warm and dogs on leads are most welcome.

There is shelter, whatever the weather under the impressive Cypress trees planted in the 1870s or in the chapel where there is a fascinating story of the history of the Asylum itself and pictures and stories of some of the patients and staff.

Donations, to help keep this amazing place for future generations by dedicated volunteers, would be most welcome.