An Extravagant Tomb

Chesters's Overleigh Cemetery contains a most extravagant tomb, that of the Chancellor of Chester, Henry Raikes. It features a full-size prone statue of the occupant protected by an ornate stone canopy. It has been Grade II listed by English Heritage, Carved panels depict the Crucifixion (north side) and Christ healing (south side). The inscription reads: "Henry Rakes, Chancellor of Chester who died 28 November 1854 age 72 years. Note the headless angel sat by his pillow.