Ashes to ashes, dust to dust....

One of the more unusual gifts we've received was a double burial plot in Danygraig Cemetery in Risca, South Wales. At one time, it seemed the ideal resting place for us but, as our focus is now in the West Country, we've decided to rescind our claim on this piece of the Principality. That decision taken, we were left with the question "if not Danygraig, then where?". And that was not too hard to answer. Given our affinity for Dartmoor, having our ashes scattered, together of course, somewhere on the moor seems to be a good exit strategy. I guess we'll have added spice to our walks from now on as we eye up suitable spots for the 'deed'.

Not that I'm in any hurry for the day to come but I am curious about some of the practical details. A quick Google search soon produced enough information to shut me up for a while.

Would there be any problems in scattering ashes on the moor?  
The Dartmoor National Park Authority (DNPA) looks after the moor and, from a rummage in their electronic drawers, I'd call them a reluctant acceptor of the fact that some people want to have their ashes scattered within their domain. They do not advertise or generally recommend the scattering of ashes, there is no reference to it on their website and they say there is no ‘official’ policy. But there is an unofficial 'advice note' on the subject and these are some salient points from it.

• A low-key, informal scattering of ashes would raise no objection.
• A formal gathering, of 30 or more people, on Common Land on DNPA land would require specific permission and would require them to check time and date to avoid clashing with other events.
• They would normally refuse permission for any permanent plaque
• They don’t like ashes being buried as this is in contrary to DNPA byelaws.
• They don’t want ashes scattered in rivers or streams as the water may be for human or animal consumption lower down the watercourse.
•  If a popular spot, such as Hound Tor, used by lots of people is chosen, they ask that the scattering is done when the site is quiet and/or in a more secluded part of the site so that others there are not perturbed.

All of this seems pretty reasonable and shouldn't get in the way of anything we might want to do.

Are there any hints as to how ashes should be/could be scattered?
Yes, hints there are aplenty. Once the stone was lifted, I was amazed at what was revealed. I didn't know that 'scattertubes' existed and that there is one with a Dartmoor theme just waiting to be bought. Wonderfully tasteful and I might just add it to my Xmas list. I reckon if we both keep our weights in trim, we should fit into a single tube. Presumably there are perforations at the bottom for easy dispersal of the contents?

And there is a whole range of others to choose from. Take a look at these: but please, not the Teddy Bear or Golfer's.

And it doesn't end there! Should someone want a permanent memento of my/our physical presence/s then they can incorporate a few grammes of ashes in a paperweight or a walking stick handle or a stained glass window. I'd suggest an egg timer but that's up to them.

All we need to do now is the choose the spot and then, I guess, we are all set to go.