About Ian.

Gravedigger Ian Shipley (46) lives with his wife Alison and wag the dog in the village of Swinderby Lincolnshire.

His career as a gravedigger began at Newark Cemetery, Nottinghamshire, on the 10th May 1982.

He worked for Newark Town Council for over 20 years and was cemetery foreman there between 1997-2003.

In January 2003 he left his Council position and set up his own grave-digging business.

Ian has traditionally hand-dug over 3,415 graves and has visited 110 different cemeteries and churchyards across both Nottinghamshire and Lincolnshire.

News.

October 2009 :

Ian`s second book `A Gravedigger`s Tales`, will be available from mid-october. ISBN 978-190-7211-669.

In it, he recalls digging out the wrong grave, to working in a somewhat creepy churchyard. A Halloween prank that terrified a colleague, to embarrassing cock-ups and even a floating coffin.
For further information: About The Book page

An interview with Ian Shipley completed by James walker of Nottingham based Left Lion magazine can now be read on their website. www.leftlion.co.uk

On Sunday March 1st I did an interview to camera with film producer Rakha Singh. It is hoped that this will lead to the making of a documentary film about myself and the work I do.

Meet Wag.

Hi, I'm Wag the dog and I am three years old and I often accompany my master on his many village digs.

I guard the sandwiches and basically laze about in the sunshine. I do get bored so if you see me please come and say hello. I love the attention and I do not bite. Please, bring biscuits!!!

I must say sorry to my master (IAN) for chewing the end off his handbrake and for being sick in his van. Also, I am really sorry for causing the cut to my master`s head and chewing the fingers off of his gloves.

Shhhh...Check out Wag`s Secret Diary here!