He was well known as the ‘Brierley Hill Giant’ and weighed in at an astonishing 48 stone when he died in 1933. But now larger-than-life George Lovatt lies in a forgotten grave at St Michael’s Church in his hometown.

He is not the only outstanding local figure to be buried at the churchyard in the High Street. Anthony Clarke Booth, who received the Victoria Cross for outstanding bravery during the Zulu War in 1897, is also buried at the spot. 

And staff at St Michael’s are keen to revive interest in the two figures during an open day being held at the church later this month.

Churchwarden Brian Buck said: “Hardly anyone knows these two men are buried at the church here.

“George Lovatt’s grave is untended now so I don’t think anyone visits it much anymore.

“Flowers are laid at the grave of Anthony Booth every year after the remembrance day service, but we don’t know who leaves them.  I think a lot of people would be very interested to learn more about these two men.”

During the open day the church will open its doors to the public, and church members will be on hand throughout the day to show visitors the treasures of Brierley Hill’s oldest building.

The church will be open every Saturday during the months of September and October from 10am until 12.30pm. All visitors are welcome to take a look  around. Admission is free.