Geoff Brookes; Grave Tales

Geoff Brookes; Grave Tales

The discovery of the Cadoxton Murder Stone, near Neath led to Geoff writing a regular feature in the Welsh Country Magazine,in which he explored the stories beneath gravestones across Wales. These were collected together, initially in Stories in Welsh Stone (now out of print) and then in the two volumes of Grave Tales From Wales, published by Cambria Books in 2021 and 2022.

Every grave, everywhere, is a physical representation of a life, and every life is fascinating. Find one that is not, and that would make it unique. Gravestones are the means by which we can explore hidden histories, often the forgotten lives of ordinary people, lives otherwise overlooked. Through these ‘Grave Tales’ you will meet heroes and poets, you will confront tragedies and murders, injustice and sadness. But there are also great achievements, astonishing courage and humanity.

You may touch a grave, and connect instantly with the person it represents; you will feel the weight of the story that lies within. Headstones are not untouchable relics behind a security screen; they are physical memories, accessible to all of us. Your presence and your touch will bring those memories to life. These tales from the past can still speak to us today. They were here before we were, and they will still be there after we have gone. That is what makes them so special.

The graves in Geoff’s books are not merely about Wales; they are about all of us and there are Bristol connections too.