Charles Dickens died on the 9th June 1870, apparently after a massive stroke, at Gads Hill, without gaining consciousness. Demands, led by the Times, were made that he should be buried and honoured at Westminster Abbey (against his wishes), though his request for a modest funeral was respected. The memorial stone (he asked not to have a tomb) is a major feature of visits by sightseers. During his funeral it was said 'he was a sympathiser with the poor, the suffering, and the
oppressed; and by his death, one of England’s greatest writers is lost
to the world'.
Inscription as requested by himself.
Recently, Ted Hughes was honoured by a plaque at Poets Corner; I was able to be there myself, and witnessed Seamus Heaney talking magnificently about him and the importance of Poets Corner. Dickens would surely have deeply appreciated Ted's work. The photo below is the first taken, following the service of dedication.
Ted Hughes, Poets Corner
