THE GRAVES of one of Malvern’s most historical families are set to be renovated in time to mark 100 years since their most famous member died.
The town’s civic society has raised £3,000 to carry out the work on the Foster family memorial plots which are located in the Victorian part of Great Malvern Cemetery.
Gravestones will be cleaned, releaded and have new cast iron foundations fitted by May 13 marking the centenary of the death of R.E. ‘Tip’ Foster.
Anthony Collis who is documenting the lives of the family said the Fosters had made many contributions to Malvern.
In 1867 Rev Henry Foster joined Malvern College as house master two years after it was founded. It was there where he and his wife Sophia had their ten children, including seven boys who were all educated at the college.
Mr Collis said they were all prolific sportsmen, playing first class cricket for Worcester, and the three daughters were all good golf players. He added the county was even dubbed ‘Fostershire’ in recognition of the family.
Henry was a founder member of Worcestershire Golf Club in Malvern Wells where he would host a match every year between his children.
R.E. ‘Tip’ Foster is recognised as the most famous Foster having been the only man to captain England in cricket and football. His first test against Australia where he scored 289 runs also remains a world record for a test debut.
He died 1914 aged just 36 from diabetes. He was cremated in London however his ashes were scattered in Great Malvern Cemetery where his parents, his sisters and some of his brothers are buried.
Mr Collis said: “I think it’s a great shame so few people today have any knowledge of the Fosters. They are as much a part of Malvern’s heritage as anyone else.
“It is well worth trying to rectify the graves where possible.”
Malvern Town Council, which runs the cemetery, recently met and agreed to work with Malvern Civic Society in order for the work to be completed.
