St. Andrew's Cemetery, grave of Ralph Hedley

Ralph Hedley (1848-1913) was an artist and wood engraver. He served an apprenticeship as a wood carver, later setting up a business in New Bridge Street as an 'Artistic and Architecural Carver'. He made models and moulds for Joseph Swan's light bulbs but church furnishings were his main product. He produced much of the carvings in St. Nicholas Cathedral in 1882, including the Bishop's throne. Ralph was also a painter, having been taught by William Bell Scott at the Newcastle School of Art. For 15 years he exhibited paintings at the Royal Academy. His best works include The Ballard Seller, The News-Boy, Going Home and Geordie ha'ad the Bairn. His gravestone is a Celic cross monument.