ULVERSTON Parish Churchyard is now included in the worldwide Quiet Garden Movement.

It is a global network of more than 300 gardens in homes, churches, hospitals and schools made available for people of all ages to experience silence, and spend time in prayer and contemplation.

"The Quiet Garden Movement is about giving people permission to step back and experience a sense of stillness and wonderment," said founder the Rev Philip Roderick. "We live in a world where we are swamped by methods of communication and yet we find ourselves unable to communicate.

"Silence is the missing and vital ingredient. Even as little as five minutes can be restorative and healing."

The world's largest study into the links between rest and wellbeing, published in 2016, showed that being alone and in the natural environment were rated top in the three most restful activities.

The churchyard is open all year. Gardening by volunteers takes place on Wednesday afternoons.