YOU may never notice it as you tread the curving path in St Helens Cemetery, but a birds’ eye view reveals a hidden secret.

The footway forms a perfect heart shape and was spotted by an eagle-eyed Star reader from Haydock while looking at Google Maps.

The path was the creation of Thomas Denville Barry, who designed the cemetery in the 19th century.

The quirky feature also appears in other cemeteries he created in Anfield, Toxteth and Preston.

Ted Forsyth, from the Friends of St Helens Cemetery said that the heart was more of a signature by Denville Barry rather than any specific meaning.

He explained: “It doesn’t really represent anything.

“It’s a sign of respect. Different cemeteries have their own ways of doing things. And some have features just like this.”

And Councillor Alison Bacon, cabinet member for Environmental Protection tells us: “In 1856, St Helens Burial Board purchased the land for the Borough Cemetery “Nine parties were invited to submit plans and estimates for the cemetery and the scheme chosen was one by Thomas Denville Barry.

“The design was laid out with two main curving drives, forming a heart shape, leading off an entrance drive with informal paths linking and leading off from this formal arrangement.

“The first burials took place in the cemetery, then known as Windleshaw Cemetery, in 1858.

“The site is now included in the register of Parks and Gardens of Special Historic interest in England compiled by English Heritage.”

St Helens Cemetery has a thriving and active Friends Group who are very knowledgeable about the history and heritage of the cemetery.

The group can be contacted via the cemetery office – telephone 01744 677406/7.