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A memorial is not merely a marker erected over a grave to remind us of the name of the deceased. It is a lasting symbol of remembrance; a tribute to a life now ended. It is therefore extremely important that its design is carefully chosen. Hasty decisions made while still in a distraught condition are very often the cause of later regrets, so it is advisable to wait and perhaps spend some time looking around different churchyards or cemeteries finding the right memorial before speaking to us. |
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Memorials may take many forms but those in this leaflet concerns those erected in cemeteries or churchyards. Such memorials need to be of a material that will withstand all kinds of weather, take a permanent carved inscription (and possibly additional ones later on), be capable of shaping and ornamentation, and harmonise with the surroundings. It should also weather attractively. Centuries have shown natural stone materials (i.e. stone, slate, marble and granite) have all these qualities. |
WHAT YOU MAY CHOOSE
Cemetery and churchyard authorities nearly always have guidelines for the types of memorials they will admit. Certain varieties of stone are more appropriate in some places than others, not only for their appearance but also because of the effects of weather or local conditions. There may also be limits to the design of memorials that are acceptable, we can advise you on all different restrictions.
Many people like to choose a design from a display shown to them by ourselves, perhaps an existing similar memorial in a cemetery or churchyard, because this way you will see clearly in advance how the work will look when it is finished. However, if you require something more individual, we will be pleased to design it for you.
CREMATION MEMORIALS
In some cemeteries and churchyards full size memorials over cremated remains may not be permitted. Where they are, they may have to be very small, or even just plaques. Sometimes there may be only a central memorial commemorating all the burials in that area. Again we will be able to advise and assist you on these matters.
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INITIAL ENQUIRY It is quite normal to ask for prices and we shall be happy to give you a full written estimate, showing all the costs involved. These will include the memorial itself with all the required lettering, ornamentation and finishes; its installation on proper foundations at the plot; cemetery or churchyard fees will also be included. (Remember some of these are set charges which we have to pay in advance). We make application to the cemetery or churchyard authorities on your behalf to erect the memorial, when they will then send to us, their approval, once consent has been granted. |
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PLACING THE ORDER When you place the order, you will be told of the availability of the material, the complexity of the design and the condition of the ground will effect the time we will take to complete your memorial. Again we will advise you of this. If required we will also help you with the wording of the inscription. Before agreeing to the order, make sure that you have checked it thoroughly and be particularly careful that the wording and spelling of the inscription are shown correctly. Any alterations should be confirmed immediately and in writing. Also note that, unless you give us definite instructions to the contrary, the layout of the inscription will be left to the discretion of the letter carver. |
INSURANCE
It is always advisable to insure a memorial against accidental damage and vandalism. The cost is not great and we have full details of a scheme available.
As members of the National Association of Funeral Directors, we are bound by the, 'Code of Practice', published by the NAFD in consultation with the Office of Fair Trading. Copies are available, free of charge, from our offices.