When a loved family member passes away the act of commemorating them with a memorial can go a long way to helping people to address their grief. In the process of selecting and personalising a product you can think about good memories and the things about the deceased that you want to remember forever. This can really help mourners to think about their feelings.

The thing to remember about memorials is they can be placed in an array of locations and commemorate all kinds of family members. There is even a selection for pets because they are a beloved part of families too. It is important to keep the setting where the memorial will be placed in mind when choosing the design to ensure the piece will be safe and last.

Memorial vases are amongst the most flexible commemorative products because they can be placed in a vast array of locations. They can be used to leave floral tributes in your home, garden, on a burial plot in a cemetery or churchyard, and even indoors on these sites. It may even be possible to leave them in gardens of remembrance.

Another great thing about vases is they can be personalised with a message, just like a plaque or a headstone. The big difference is they bring more colour because of the freedom to choose all kinds of different flowers. This is a big benefit and the colours can really help people to deal with their grief.

You can choose memorial vases made from a wide array of different materials. With the fact that they are both a vase and a lasting tribute to the deceased it is important to choose a quality, hardwearing material. This is especially true if you are placing it outside. The last thing you want is glass or ceramic ones that could be broken easily. Granite and marble are the favoured materials because of their durability.

If you would like to choose from a wonderful selection of memorial vases we recommend you have a look at our website. We take great pride in our work and strive to deliver the best products. Whichever family member you want to commemorate, pets included, we are confident we can provide the most wonderful, bespoke piece.

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To celebrate the life of a loved one, the best thing to do is invest in highly personalised memorials. When designs are personal they bring that extra amount of uniqueness that general memorial models lack. Not to mention, if you customise the piece in a way which helps you remember your family at the best point in their life, this can help immensely in easing the grieving process. We are aware of just how much memorials mean to the family and as such, our purpose is to provide the most wonderful designs possible.

Recently, massive restoration work started on the Luton War Memorial, one of the town’s most recognised and cherished landmarks. The Borough Council has been bestowed with a grant by the War Memorials Trust to assist with the project. Said work shall include cleaning the memorial and the statue, temporarily dismantling the existing structure and redefining the lettering.

Costs are expected to be in the area of £30,000, but the trust has agreed to meet three quarters of the bill, provided that the council contributes the remaining amount. Work is currently underway and shall be accomplished through two stages, with a break for the Remembrance Day ceremonies. Phase one will involve the raising of a scaffold to permit the letter redefinition, cleaning and other works.

Once Remembrance Day has passed, some of the structure’s lower parts that have started to move over the years will be dismantled in order to be fixed and reassembled. This shall be accomplished utilising traditional methods and will act as phase two. The project is a fantastic example of how memorials can be retained for the long term so remembrance can continue.

At UK Memorial Service, we have a selection of memorial types available for families who wish to honour and remember their loved ones. When you come to us with your specifications, rest assured that we will do everything in our power to make certain that they’re met. If you should ever need our assistance, we will be there to offer our full support to you.

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Having to provide a memorial for your loved one is never an easy task, especially when they leave us so young. To help families remember their children at their best, we can offer highly bespoke and professionally-made commemorative products dedicated specifically to them. No matter the specifications you lay out for us, be assured that we will do everything we can to fulfil them and provide fittings childrens memorials.

A memorial of any description acts as a tribute that celebrates the time the deceased spent with us. Generally engraved in some form or another, they are supposed to last for a considerable amount of time. Memorials for children, just like adults, can be as simple or as extravagant as you want. Whatever you decide is what’s right for you.

If you are a family that prefers the more simple approach, begin the designing of your tribute with a meaningful phrase. This could be “In loving Memory of” or “Dedicated to the Memory Of” followed by the child’s name. Writing such as this stands out very well in medium bold letters.

The line containing the name is done in bold with the purpose of placing a special emphasis on it. If your child had a nickname that they went by, a good suggestion would be to either place it between the first and last name, or alternatively, at the end of the full name. Adding nicknames helps in making the memorial all the more personal, as you are placing a special trait that the child held on the tribute. Quotation marks are commonly used for the nickname in order to distinguish between it and the real name.

At UK Memorial Service we have a selection of memorials dedicated especially to the youngest family members. For something a little less simple, a personal statement and a picture of the child’s favourite character can be added to truly help make the perfect childrens memorials. Should you need our assistance, be assured that we are here to provide our full support to you.

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Burial sites across the UK each have their own rules regarding leaving memorials and other commemorative items on plots. Whether it is churchyards, cemeteries, crematoria, or even wooden areas for green burials, it is essential you check them before you place anything. This will avoid the potential of being asked to remove things.

Vases are a particular item where limitations may be in place. These can include limiting the use of glass ones because they can be knocked over and broken, creating a hazard. Ceramic vases are slightly more durable but can still break. As a result their placement may also be controlled.

The rules regarding vases may also extend to the flowers that can be placed to ensure the site is properly maintained. The last thing staff and other visitors to a site want to see is poorly kept flowers and mess such as ribbons, wrappings and cuttings that have been incorrectly disposed of. There may be restrictions in place to limit this, including only allowing flowers in specific locations.

At UK Memorial Service we always advise our clients to be careful about choosing which items will be placed on a burial plot. Our work all across the UK has seen us provide memorials to be placed on a wide array of different sites. As a result we have seen firsthand how much the rules can differ. This is why we recommend checking to be certain.

Our experience has also led us to offer a wide array of special memorial vases. These products are made from granite and marble, making them more durable than glass and ceramic styles. They are designed so they can be used on different burial sites or be left at home in the garden if you wish to have a tribute to hold flowers closer to home.

Each vase can be personalised with an inscription so the piece will not only be durable and long lasting; it will also be unique and meaningful. We are very happy to offer this service in-house and can even provide advice about inscriptions and choosing the right words.

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Across the UK there are memorials to celebrate the history of important sites so they can be remembered by future generations even if the use of the site changes. These pieces take many different shapes and sizes, but all are vital to preserve the cultural heritage of the areas.

On 26th and 27th August new memorials were placed at two disused airfields in Pembrokeshire. The Airfields of Britain Conservation Trust (ABCT) was behind the project, seeing that both sites were commemorated properly. They are the first national airfield charity in the world and have successfully overseen the placement of 58 memorials in total in the UK.

The first memorial was laid at Brawdy Airfield, a former RAF and Navy base that began life in February 1944. The site is special as a result of the three runways facing different directions. This means that aircraft can land and take off in all kinds of prevailing winds. The airfield has enjoyed a rich history and is still remarkably preserved since it stopped being used for aircraft in 1996.

The second memorial was placed at Templeton. This three runway airfield has a very unusual history. It was opened in November 1942 as an RAF base but closed in October 1945 after being switched over to the Admiralty. Surprisingly though the site saw additional usage from the 50s onwards and the runways are still in relatively good condition. This means that the airfield has seen more use outside of wartime than it did during World War II.

The placement of memorials at each site ensures they will be remembered for their interesting histories. Ceremonies were held to unveil each memorial. Both enjoyed good attendances and showed the community support for the ABCT project.

At UK Memorial Services we love seeing culturally significant sites like this being marked. It shows another important application for memorials. Alongside this it reminds us that every piece, regardless of its purpose, should be unique and special so it acts as a fitting tribute. We keep this in mind for every product we create ourselves.

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When a child passes away it can be especially hard. In order to help families with their grief we provide specialised childrens memorials that are personalised to reflect the departed. When you give us your specifications, we will ensure that they are met and that the memorial is hand crafted to perfection.

The first step towards obtaining a memorial for your child is to choose what type it is that you want. We have a range of headstones and kerb sets available that are both touching and offer the space to add your own personal touch. Once you have decided on which type you prefer, thinking about customising it is the next step.

Epitaphs are quite common on memorials and they come in a myriad of shapes, sizes and styles. When it comes to these inscriptions, less is often more. They are commonly short and concise so the words are displayed clearly and prominently. Even if the whole headstone, the reverse included, is used the amount of text you can fit on is limited. Regardless of the length though, epitaphs are a chance to define a person’s life in words, giving the memorial meaning and expressing true emotion at the same time.

You will also need to think carefully about what shape the memorial wants to be. If it’s going to be an upright headstone for example, consider something special like a favourite cartoon character, a butterfly or another animal that was favoured by your child. This can make it extra special and meaningful. The shape can also bring great comfort to all who see it.

At UK Memorial Service we provide tailor-made childrens memorials that possess a touch of sympathy whilst also having an elegant design. When you come to us, we can manage every aspect from memorial ground support to the cemetery regulations. There’s also no need to worry about the cost of personalising your preferred design, as this comes at no extra cost. For those tributes that truly mean something, we are the provider for you.

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Having come in a plethora of shapes, sizes and designs over the years, memorial plaques have truly stood the test of time. Just like any other commemorative product, the plaque acts as a tribute to those that have passed on and presents the opportunity for friends and family to personalise a piece in a way that reflects the deceased’s personality.

Recently, plans were announced for a memorial plaque to be unveiled in Germany which was to be a dedication to musician David Bowie. The intention was for Berlin officials to commemorate him with this plaque in the Schöneberg district, the place of residence in the country he shared with fellow musician Iggy Pop during the late 1970s.

The porcelain plaque was unveiled by the Mayor of Berlin, Michael Muller, at Haupstrasse 155. The piece in question describes how Bowie conceived and recorded the three albums known as “Heroes”, “Lodger” and “Low” while he lived in the German capital. Collectively, the three albums are known as Bowie’s Berlin Trilogy. In addition, the plaque also includes a line from the title track of the “Heroes” album.

David Bowie was described as a symbol of the cosmopolitan and tolerant atmosphere present in the city. The musician brought the divided cultural metropolis and Western Berlin closer to a number of people across the world.

At UK Memorial Service we have a selection of plaques designed to act as a tribute to your loved ones. When all of our memorials are manufactured, they are done so by a professional who will hand craft them in the most delicate way possible. If you tell us how you would like the memorial to be designed, we will go the extra mile to ensure that your requirements are fulfilled.

We are proud to offer memorial plaques that can be placed in a wide array of settings and will add grace to each one. If you would like to discuss a design with us please get in touch.

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The time during which a loved one passes is not an easy one; this is why we aim to provide the most thoughtful of memorials to the families that come to us. Not only do we offer them an expertly hand crafted and highly personalised tribute to their family members, we make sure that they are supported fully throughout their time with us.

Regardless of their purpose or what they represent, be it a war memorial or a dedication to peace, memorials stand out as a shining example in the community due to their elegant and unique appearance. Because of the massive amount of history surrounding them, simply standing in front of one can induce an awe inspiring experience.

Memorials exist all over the world and calling some of them impressive would be quite the understatement. Found in Romania, the Maraseti Heroes Mausoleum was constructed as a dedication to those who fought for freedom during the Battle of Maraseti in 1917. This historical structure stands on the former battle grounds and is home to many relics from this period.

Located in Japan and dedicated to those who helped build a peaceful foundation for the country, the Yasukuni Shrine came to be in 1869. This shrine holds a deep and personal relationship with the imperial family, who attend twice a year during spring and autumn. Massive rituals take place here, where His Majesty the Emperor presents offerings that are dedicated to the spirits.

Each of the wonderful memorials around the world tells a story and preserves vital memories. It is important that they are protected and preserved so that they can continue to do just that.

At UK Memorial Service we go above and beyond to ensure that families receive the memorials that they deserve. When they come to us with the specifications for their memorial, we work tirelessly to ensure that they are all met to the highest standards. If you wish to find out more about our services, feel free to contact us.

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It’s an incredibly difficult time when a loved one passes on, with this being especially true for family that lose someone young. In order to help families cope in their time of need, we provide special children’s memorials that can be tailored to meet your exact specifications. The more personal the memorial is, the more touching and respectful to the children and families it will be.

It was recently revealed in Canvey that a special garden is to be unveiled, which is dedicated to the children that have passed on. The Canvey-based support group From My Womb, To My Heart organised this garden with the assistance of other parties. The previous year, a page was set up for the garden by six women, all of whom had personal experience with these difficult times.

It was explained that the garden would have plaques dedicated to the children who had passed on, which would be placed on an angel statue. This way, it would be as if the angels themselves were watching over the children. The original idea for this garden came from the revelation that there was a lack of something like the concept that would help facilitate the remembrance of their loved ones. The garden will act as a place where people can go when they have suffered a loss.

The memorials themselves are just as important as the garden that they are placed in and no one understands this better than we do. To this end, we produce only the highest quality children’s memorials. They are specifically designed around your precise specifications and are made by our own high quality craftsmen.

At UK Memorial Service we not only provide highly personal and respectful memorials, but we offer our full support to the families that come to us in their time of need. We do this because we understand how difficult times like these are for them and so we do our best to make them as comfortable as possible. When it comes to the finest memorials for your children, we are the service for you.

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At UK Memorial Service we create a wide range of beautiful commemorative products, working very hard to satisfy the wishes of our clients. It is our main aim to provide the most beautiful items, whether it is a headstone, plaque, bench or a memorial vase. Each one is personal and meaningful so it will be treasured by the family members of the deceased.

One thing that really sets us apart from other stone masons is the fact that we use the same skills and high quality materials to make each of our products. This means you can expect standards to be maintained all across our range. Whatever you purchase from us you can expect it to be beautifully presented and professionally finished.

Our memorial vases are a fantastic example of our commitment to quality. We put the same effort into getting them precise and ensuring they will last for a long period of time that we do with our other products. We also personalise them in similar ways, allowing people to choose an inscription and even graphics if they wish to add an image to the piece. We do the engraving and inscribing in house so we can satisfy all kinds of bespoke requests.

The vases we provide can be placed in an array of settings, from churchyards to cemeteries and more personal places such as your own garden. They will look beautiful in each setting and prove to be a long lasting reminder of the deceased.

By purchasing your vase from us alongside your other memorials you can ensure the same materials are utilised so they fit perfectly together. This also means you can ensure the inscriptions match, both in terms of the font and the finish.

We have proudly served clients across the UK for several years, providing the finest memorial products we possibly can. Our reputation has grown over time because we never waiver from our commitments to quality and customer service. If you have any questions you can contact us to discuss your needs.

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August 4th 2016 marked the centenary of the dedication of the very first memorial for World War One in London. The beautiful cross was created following the Battle of Jutland. It commemorates Lord Kitchener, the Secretary for War, the crewmen of HMS Hampshire lost during the conflict, and the Honourable Royal Artillery Company.

The memorial was dedicated on August 4th 1916 by the Lord Mayor of London and the Bishop of Stepney. It stands at the church of St. Botolph-without-Bishopsgate in the City, a short distance from Liverpool Street Underground Station.

To mark the centenary of the placing of the memorial and the war itself the memorial was rededicated. A special service was held alongside this to commemorate the event. The Rt. Revd Adrian Newman, the current Bishop of Stepney oversaw this. Members of the Honourable Royal Artillery Company, the city, and the local community attended.

To further celebrate the long history of the memorial and those it commemorates Historic England recently decided to grant it Grade II Listed status. The cross was praised for its historical association and interest as well as its architectural from. In terms of the latter the fact that it is an elegant cross in the medieval style made it special.

The St. Botolph-without-Bishopsgate memorial joins the long list of other war memorials that have been granted new or improved Listed status to preserve them. It is fitting that London’s very first piece to commemorate World War One be given the protection.

At UK Memorial Service we have a passion for memorials big and small. We produce them with care and precision, working tirelessly to provide products that our clients will truly treasure. Whether you’re looking for a larger piece with elaborate carvings and engravings or a smaller, simpler one we can create it for you.

If you have any questions or would like a helping hand designing a memorial please feel free to contact us. We are here to help and guide people through the process of creating a long lasting tribute.

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Losing someone is never easy, especially when they leave us at such a tender age. When a child passes on, a memorial gives us the chance to remember them when they were at their happiest. Remembering them this way aids in the grieving process and allows us to cope with the loss more easily. Our memorials can offer you the same comfort in these difficult times.

Childrens memorials of all shapes and sizes take time to create; ours are no different. We think of time as an opportunity though, giving us longer to make them more personal and meaningful. Extensive planning can be required for the larger ones, but eventually they are produced and the result is well worth the wait.

In North Tonawanda, New York the Children’s Memorial Garden is finally becoming a reality for families that have lost loved ones. Roughly after a year of planning, members of the projects committee, which consists of parents who have lost loved ones, joined together with elected officials at the future site of the garden for a groundbreaking ceremony.

The site is intended to serve as a place for parents to reflect and remember their children. It will feature a pergola that visitors will pass through to gain access to the walk area. Members of the community will be able to purchase plaques to display along the inside walls. A memorial such as this provides the opportunity for people to share a place that has such importance and meaning.

At UK Memorial Service we can provide a range of childrens memorials. When working on them we make sure that we do everything in our power to provide you with the perfect piece. We know that times like these aren’t easy for you, which is why we will offer our full support to you should you need it. This includes help selecting a design and deciding how to personalise it.

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Memorials are the final tribute offered to a person who has led an excellent life. Families go through the toughest of times when a loved one passes on and to help them, we provide a wide array of products that are personalised to reflect the deceased family member’s lifestyle and the things they love.

No one should be denied memorials for any reason; those who do or provide an improper service are dishonouring the memory of the deceased. Recently, a Nuneaton family have been told that they cannot buy a memorial vase to be put up at a local cemetery. They asked the Nuneaton and Bedworth Borough Council if they could put it there but were informed that they could only rent one. This shows how different the rules are at each cemetery across the UK. In some the plans to put their own vase in place would have been perfectly acceptable.

As a result of the decision, the family have opted to honour the deceased with a memorial in their own garden. In addition, they have also called on the council to change its policies. The first of these shows that people can make their own arrangements outside of the cemetery or churchyard if they want to get their wishes. Having a memorial at home also offers big advantages because it means the family can watch over it and a reminder of the deceased is always close by.

At UK Memorial Service we understand that families are already going through hard enough times without there being complications with the memorials. Our memorial vases are designed to comfort bereaved families when they need it the most. Each one is personalised so they make beautiful, long lasting tributes that you can place all kinds of flowers in.

For memorial vases that are truly special, we are the provider to come to. You can view many of the designs on our website and also call on us if you have a unique idea in mind. As you can see from the products on our website we can offer vases in a variety of shapes so you can rely on us to offer advice about what can be done.

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Fishing is an integral part of the heritage of the town of North Shields in Tyne and Wear. The port is renowned as the largest for prawns in England. The area was also previously home to numerous ship building and repair yards. These produced an array of vessels, including the small inshore Northumbrian coble and larger fishing boats. Many of them also built brigs for the coal trade.

Although the port in the town is still in operation and has such a long history it is one of a small number in the UK to lack a permanent memorial to the fishermen who lost their lives at sea. The North Shields Fishermen’s Heritage Project was set up in 2015 to rectify this. They aim to raise awareness of the dangers commercial fishermen face and money to place a monument in the area.

The Project has been ongoing and recently enjoyed a big step forward with the confirmation of a site for the memorial. Once completed it will be placed at Fish Quay so it can overlook the harbour where so many people sail from.

Alongside the selection of a site the potential designs for the memorial have also been released. Each was created by a prominent artist. Members of the public are being invited to view these at the North Shields Low Light Heritage Centre. They will be able to share their opinions on the designs and vote for their favourite. This could help to contribute towards the one that is selected.

At UK Memorial Service projects like this one really strike a chord with us. They are particularly impressive because they show communities coming together to remember their heritage and those who have lost their lives. We are excited to see how this project progresses and what type of design is selected. We have no doubt it will hold a fantastic place alongside the other memorials to fishermen found across the UK.

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One of the biggest decisions you have to make when opting for a cremation is how to commemorate the deceased. The first thing to think about is what course of action to take with the ashes. You can choose to save these in an urn or scatter them in a memorable place. If you opt for the first you need to then decide whether the urn will be kept at home, buried, interred, or placed in a niche. Whatever choice you make you should be considering what kind of permanent memorial will be in place if you want one.

Cremation memorials with niches are a good option that allows you to save and protect ashes whilst also commemorating the passing of a loved one. The urn can be placed inside the memorial, keeping it safe and preserved. This is a really fitting tribute and also helps to make the piece that little bit more special.

There are several types of memorials with niches for urns. Columbaria are the most common but you can also choose headstones, benches and even plinths topped with bird baths and sculptures. You should select a product that best suits your needs, allowing you to place it in the best possible location.

At UK Memorial Service we offer a wide range of beautiful products so you can commemorate a cremation. Each of them is made by our passionate, highly skilled team so the quality and finish is unparalleled. We use an array of materials to give people even more choice, letting them decide what style of commemorative product they want as well as the aesthetics.

As part of our service we will guide you through the whole process of creating the memorial. We do this to ensure your needs are met and to support you in your loss. From start to finish you will know we are there for you and have your best wishes in mind.

Another thing that really sets us apart is the fact that we personalise each product as standard. We want each piece to be personal and meaningful and don’t believe it should require a great deal of extra costs for this to happen.

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When you keep flowers in a vase you want them to look their best for as long as possible. This is true whether you decide to keep them in your home or outside. It is especially accurate when you place them in memorial vases to commemorate the passing of a loved one.

The key thing to remember with fresh flowers is that they should be at their best when you purchase them. They should bloom and look fantastic soon after you put them in the vase. If they are already past their best they naturally won’t last as long. The trick to keeping them looking great is to buy them fresh and care for them properly.

The first thing people tend to do when they get flowers is to cut them so they can be put in the vase. It is important you trim them to the right length and take care to keep the cuts clean and even. This is important because badly cut flowers won’t last anywhere near as long.

When they are in the vase you need to keep the flowers nourished in the same way they would have been if they had not been cut. You can add a number of things to the water to keep the flowers nourished. Plant food is a good idea and can work wonders. Alternatively people suggest using apple cider vinegar and sugar mixed into the water.

Another great tip is to keep the water as clean as possible. This will help to minimise the growth of harmful bacteria. Changing the water every few days is very wise. On top of this you can again add a number of things to it to kill bacteria and keep it fresh. Adding an aspirin to the water is said to work wonders. A copper penny can also work too because the metal will act like an acidifier.

At UK Memorial Services we offer a collection of high quality vases to commemorate lost loved ones. They are made with care from specially selected materials and can be personalised. They will look great alongside headstones and memorials and with the above tips you can keep the flowers healthy and happy for longer.

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It is quite rare in this day and age to see a churchyard burial taking place. There are a number of reasons for this being the case, and many of you will be aware of some of them. In our experience as one of the leading memorial makers in the UK, however, we have often heard people discuss reasons for the lack of church burials forming part of funeral services which are incorrect. As a consequence of this, we’d like to discuss some of these to clarify the exact status.

The first point we would like to address is the idea that some have about churchyard burials being made illegal. This has come about mostly as a result of people assuming laws in other European nations must also be applicable to us in the UK. We can understand why many would reach this conclusion, but it is not quite accurate. For a number of reasons this type of burial has indeed been prohibited in countries around the world, but no such law has yet been passed in the UK.

One of the other assumptions people have made in respect of churchyard burials is that there is no further space available to facilitate them. Although this is true of some of the churches in the country, it is not the case for all of them. Many churchyards keep space available for parishioners who have made arrangements for their funeral ceremony.

Whilst it is true that this type of burial is not as common or frequent a site as it once was, it is incorrect to conclude that they no longer happen. In many towns and villages around the country parishioners make arrangements for their final resting place to be within the grounds of the church which was such an important part of their life.

Over the years our memorial masons have been called upon to design and craft headstones and a wide array of other memorials to place in churchyards. We are familiar with the rules and regulations in place for this form of memorial. Our knowledge informs our work, ensuring that the perfect form of remembrance is in place for lost loved ones.

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The passing away of a child is, it perhaps goes without any need to say, one of the most traumatic and upsetting experiences which families and communities can go through. Despite all of the goodwill, compassion and support offered at such times, ultimately it feels like little can be done to help the bereaved. With this in mind it is all the more important to ensure that a long term form of remembrance is in place to serve and to help the family in the years ahead.

We know that the above sentiment is something which places even more pressure on the considerable burden of selecting a headstone to be placed at the burial site of a child. Finding the words for an inscription can be a tough and emotionally draining task in itself, with the pressure being added to through the need to select the form and style of the headstone. Our team will do all that they can to help you with a selection, with our memorial masons ensuring that the preferred design is made to perfection.

A key concern many have in selecting childrens headstones is meeting the sense of the memorial reflecting both the joys of the youthful life lived and the dignified compassion with which that life has now regrettably been laid to eternal rest. We know that it would be very unfair to expect one of the bereaved to suggest a design which expresses both of these qualities at such a traumatic time. To assist we have an extensive range of existing designs, with each one being possible to adapt and alter to reflect your specific wishes.

Our memorial masons create headstones which reflect, with dignity, the beauty of a life so young and the love which was felt for them. It is our hope that our work for you will, over the years, be something which brings comfort, care and a positive sense of remembrance to you and the bereaved.

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Memorial plaques come in all shapes and sizes and are made from a wide array of different materials. They can be found all across the UK in a huge number of settings, from benches on the seafront to flower beds in parks, cemeteries, and even your own garden. They can make fantastic, long lasting tributes to deceased loved ones but you need to be prepared for the maintenance they will require.

Bronze plaques are very popular for their elegance and flexibility. They can be placed almost anywhere and will look fantastic. If they are positioned outdoors you need to be aware of the cleaning and maintenance requirements. The material will tarnish over time when exposed to the elements, losing the polished finish that so many people love. You’ll need to clean them to avoid this and keep them looking their best.

When you clean a bronze plaque you need to take care not to damage the material. For this reason you need to avoid abrasive cleaning products. It is better to use a cloth, a cotton bud, or a very soft bristled brush to remove the dirt and grime from the plaque. Take care with the inscriptions, especially if they are coloured. The last thing you want is to damage the paint when you are cleaning.

Once it is clean you can use a wax or a polish to improve the look of the piece. These products also provide extra protection against the weather, protecting the substrate in the process.

If the plaque is screwed on to a bench or another surface you need to take care when cleaning it, ensuring you clean around the screws effectively. You definitely don’t want the screws corroding and staining the piece.

It is a good idea to check memorial plaques periodically to ensure they are not experiencing higher wear than expected. Being proactive with your cleaning and maintenance will protect the memorials and ensure they provide longer service.

At UK Memorial Service we offer a selection of bronze plaques as well as other accessories made from the material. We manufacture all of them with care and precision, ensuring they are beautiful aesthetically. They can be placed in many locations and will provide a fitting tribute to the deceased.

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Memorial kerb sets are designed to make tributes to lost loved ones all the more special. They serve a very important purpose; enclosing a grave space or cremation plot so that it is protected. They also provide a gorgeous border for an extraordinary headstone, plaque or sculpture. As an addition these products, kerbs make the memorial look and feel like a complete tribute.

When choosing kerbs you want to make sure the design is to your liking and that the material can stand the test of time. Memorials are made of specially selected materials to ensure that they last. Marble is one of the most popular choices since it enables easy manufacturing of the piece, is easy to polish, and makes inscriptions of graphics and text possible. If you are planning to place your memorial in a rural and dry area, marble is the choice for you.

Another viable option for your memorial is to have it made of granite. This is known for not only its physical prowess, but for its resistance to hydrocarbon and acid rain pollution. Due to its resistant properties it requires minimal maintenance and as a result is quite cost effective. This makes it really good for kerb sets and large memorials that would otherwise take a lot of care to look after.

At UK Memorial Service we provide you with the most personal and meaningful tributes possible. We provide kerb sets made from both marble and granite with a plethora of design options available. If you want to remember your loved ones by providing a kerbs, contact us and we can discuss the specifications with you.

You can personalise the piece to suit your requirements and also have the option for which type of covering you would like for the burial plot. You can leave it open, use coloured chippings, place a stone slab, or use the space for grass and plants.

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At UK Memorial Service we offer a compassionate helping hand to anybody who finds themselves in the position where they need to think about childrens memorials. Our team will provide support at this emotional time and work to ensure that your wishes are met so you can create a long lasting tribute.

When you choose a memorial product with longevity in mind it is important to select the right material. Granite is a very good choice because of its strength, durability and high resistance to weathering. The stone is also impervious to staining because of the denseness of the grains. This means the material will look great for many, many years.

Granite also offers a big advantage because it is amenable to cutting. This means that slabs of the material can be shaped in a wide array of ways without causing flaws. It therefore allows talented memorial manufacturers to create stunning, unique designs in all manner of shapes and sizes.

As a third benefit there are several different colours of granite to choose from including grays, reds, blues, and even greens. The shade is determined by the mineral composition of the stone. This gives people more freedom to select the right material to make a memorial from.

We are proud to work with several different types of granite to give our clients this choice. We only choose stones that meet our quality standards, ensuring they come from reliable, well established sources. Our team work competently with each material and offer workmanship you will be really impressed with.

On our website you can view a selection of the designs we offer. Each one can be customised and we can utilise the different types of granite if you would prefer a different shade. Alongside this we can also design bespoke childrens memorials if you have a special idea in mind. We are committed to offering this and helping each client get the perfect memorial.

If you would help and support you can contact a member of our team.

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Many people invest a lot of money on a headstone for after they are gone and there is good reason behind this. The memorial is a reminder of your life, telling people about it, who you were and how you lived for a long time after you are not there to tell the story yourself.

Headstones can often have a lot of value to the family members you leave behind. Personalised messages are very popular, often showing what kind of person you were and information about your life. The stones last for years and years, ensuring there is a lasting memorial to you.

The inclusion of your details on the memorial, such as your birth date and date of death as well as your name, allow people in the future to determine your family history. This is important and people researching their family trees regularly call in to cemeteries and churchyards to learn more.

There are several types of headstone to choose from, ranging from small and discreet to big and bold. The one you choose all depends on what suits you. It is a good idea to browse different designs and select the most fitting one.

Placing a headstone in a churchyard or cemetery gives your family a place to visit, leave flowers and remember you. The sites get visited by friends and family, helping them to come to terms with the loss and show that you are still in their thoughts. The use of headstones has been around well before public cemeteries came into use in the 19th century.

At UK Memorial Service we can give you a helping hand to choose your headstone. We have worked closely with a huge number of people over the years and have seen the big increase in the number planning their own funerals in advance. We can offer a flexible service so you can design your memorial and have plans in place to create it when it is needed.

If you have any questions please contact us. We also offer a huge range of other products that will look beautiful alongside the stone, including memorial vases. You can choose these at the same time as you design the headstone if you wish, ensuring that they will look perfect when placed on the grave.

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Kerb sets are a beautiful choice for people who want the memorial they place on a burial plot to cover the whole thing. They connect with the headstone and carefully outline the site. This offers some big advantages including protecting the plot and preventing people from walking over it. The space between the kerbs can also be filled with colourful chippings, flowers, or turf to improve the aesthetics even more.

The great thing about kerb sets is that they are typically made from the exact same material as the headstone. This means they will provide the same visual benefits as well as the longevity. The kerbs can be made from various shades of marble and granite, ensuring they fit with the colour you want for the headstone.

We have a wide array of different styles of kerbs to choose from, including designs with simple, straight lines and decorative sloping or tiered options. You can browse each design we have to offer on our website to get an idea of how beautiful they are. Each product is made with care and precision to ensure they look their absolute best and fit together effectively.

One advantage that kerb sets offer is that they provide space for additional flower containers to be introduced into the piece. These can be placed in the posts as well as below the headstone. This means that if you want to be able to leave more flowers on the site you can do so and ensure they stand up properly rather than being laid flat on the surface.

We are very proud to offer beautiful kerbs and provide a full fixing service alongside manufacturing to ensure they are fitted properly on site. It takes a little more work than installing a headstone because the pieces are larger and need to be arranged and secured properly. Fortunately our team of fixers have the skills and qualifications to complete the job. They are NAMM and BRAMM certified so you can expect a quality fixing.

If you have your own idea for the kerbs please feel free to contact us. We can make changes to designs for you to create the perfect piece.

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Choosing to personalise a headstone for a child is a very important step in coming to terms with the grief of the loss. Designing the memorial lets you ensure that they are remembered in the most fitting way. You can immortalise details of their personality on the piece and include a personal message to them as well.

At UK Memorial Service we understand how tough it can be to design childrens headstones and other commemorative pieces. We strive to offer the very highest level of support for everybody who needs to do it, offering design advice in the most compassionate way possible. Our team are always just one call away and will provide guidance whenever you need it.

Our range of headstones for children is broad and includes several products that come with kerb sets. These pieces are very beautiful and give people the chance to choose colourful chippings to fill the space between the kerbs. This lets you add some extra colour to the grave as well as protecting it. There are a wide range of colours to choose from so you can select your child’s favourite.

All of our products are made with care to make sure they meet our very high standards and ensure you are completely happy with the one you receive. We do all of the manufacturing in-house, tasking our highly talented artisans with producing the most beautiful commemorative products. We are very proud of their work.

If you are thinking about choosing one of our childs headstones with kerbs you should ensure you consult the churchyard or cemetery to check their rules. They may have rules in place and might want to see your design ideas to determine they are suitable. If changes are needed we can help you to make them so you can get a memorial you will love and satisfy their requirements.

To get started with your designs today please contact us.

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David Douglas is one of the most famous botanists in British history and made a huge impact on the field. He was born in Scone, Perthshire, Scotland, in 1799 and began his botanical education at the age of 11. His introduction came during several years working at Scone Palace as an apprentice to Head Gardener William Beattie. Following the completion of the apprenticeship he took a role at Valleyfield before moving on to Glasgow University’s botanic garden.

His biggest move followed this, securing an appointment at the Royal Horticultural Society in London. He made his impact on his field during several trips to North America on their behalf. During these expeditions he collected samples to be introduced into the UK when he returned. Several hundred varieties of trees and flowers have flourished in Britain and across Europe as a result of his work.

Douglas is best remembered for the species of tree that bears his name; the Douglas fir. The introduction of the fir helped to transform the forestry industry in the UK and Europe. On top of this a large number of plants had douglasii in their scientific name to commemorate his work with them. Some of these were changed but many still exist.

The work Douglas did and his lasting legacy is also commemorated with a memorial in his home town. The piece can be found in the churchyard at Old Church. It was erected in 1847, 13 years after he died on an expedition in Hawaii.

The memorial has a beautiful design that includes highly detailed carvings. It also has two marble panels with words about his life, character and botanical accomplishments engraved on them. The panels were recently restored after years of weathering had harmed the legibility. This careful work included repainting the 1,548 letters.

This is a fantastic example of the great work that goes in to restoring and retaining the historically significant memorial plaques, headstones and other memorials around the UK. They deserve this kind of care and attention, especially when they feature eye-catching designs and celebrate the incredible contributions people make to society.

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When you leave flowers or keepsakes on a grave it is important that the site is kept in order and well organised. This is crucial for three reasons; it retains the aesthetics of the site, it reduces the upkeep and maintenance requirements, and it ensures that the feelings of all visitors are accounted for.

Before placing any items it is a good idea to consult the churchyard or cemetery. You should ask what their rules are and determine exactly what type of products you are allowed to leave beside the grave. This can help you to decide which to go with and avoid the unpleasant prospect of being asked to remove items.

Leaving flowers on graves is very common in the UK. It can add beautiful colours to a site and shows that the deceased are still in the minds of their loved ones. It is crucial to ensure the flowers are placed properly though. This is where using suitable memorial vases come in. The vase will give you a place to store flowers where they can stand upright and flourish for as long as possible. It is a much better option than laying a bouquet on the ground.

When you choose a vase it is advisable to opt for one that will enhance the aesthetics of the site. Selecting one made from materials similar to the headstone or plaque is a popular choice because it will complement the larger memorial rather than potentially detracting from it. The material will also be durable so it will hold up well when it is exposed to the elements.

At UK Memorial Service we manufacture bespoke vases from a range of stones, including granite and marble. All of our products are designed to complement and will look great alongside headstones, plaques, and even large mausoleums. We are proud of the products and the fact that they allow people to show off the beautiful flowers they leave as tributes in a fantastic way.

You can browse our stunning memorial vases on our website to get an idea of the designs. If you have a special idea in mind, whether it is a unique piece or personalising an existing design, we are well placed to create it for you. Please contact us to discuss your thoughts and wishes. When you leave flowers or keepsakes on a grave it is important that the site is kept in order and well organised. This is crucial for three reasons; it retains the aesthetics of the site, it reduces the upkeep and maintenance requirements, and it ensures that the feelings of all visitors are accounted for.

Before placing any items it is a good idea to consult the churchyard or cemetery. You should ask what their rules are and determine exactly the type of products you are allowed to leave beside the grave. This can help you to decide what to go with and avoid the unpleasant prospect of being asked to remove items.

Leaving flowers on graves is very common in the UK. It can add beautiful colours to a site and shows that the deceased are still in the minds of their loved ones. However, it is crucial to ensure the flowers are placed properly. This is where using suitable memorial vases come in. The vase will give you a place to store flowers where they can stand upright and flourish for as long as possible. It is a much better option than laying a bouquet on the ground.

When you choose a vase it is a really good idea to opt for one that will enhance the aesthetics of the site. Selecting one made from materials similar to the headstone or plaque is a popular choice because it will complement the larger memorial rather than potentially detracting from it. The material will also be durable so it will hold up well when it is exposed to the elements.

At UK Memorial Service we manufacture bespoke vases from a range of stones, including granite and marble. All of our products are designed to complement and will look great alongside headstones, plaques, and even large mausoleums. We are proud of the products and the fact that they allow people to show off the beautiful flowers they leave as tributes in a fantastic way.

You can browse our stunning memorial vases, kerb sets, headstones and other products on our website to get an idea of the designs. If you have a special idea in mind, whether it is a unique piece or personalising an existing design, we are well placed to create it for you. Please contact us to discuss your thoughts and wishes.

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It is surely the case that a family could face no greater sadness than the loss of one of its younger members. Despite the best efforts of communities and society as a whole, we simply cannot stop the fact that sometimes children pass away. Our work in creating children’s memorials is focused on delivering as much support and comfort as possible to the bereaved. We achieve this by creating dignified memorials which are assured of standing in remembrance for many, many years.

The single most crucial aspect of a headstone which will mark the eternal resting place of a child is to ensure that it embodies the sense of pride, affection and closeness the family felt for their loved one. For this reason that we have a dedicated team bearing the highest and most respected accreditations to attain. Every one of our memorial masons meet and exceed the high criteria expected by the two representative bodies in the UK, NAMM and BRAMM. This means that you are assured that your choice of headstone design will be carried out and crafted to absolute perfection.

One of the greatest concerns families have about instructing memorial masons to create childrens headstones is the worry that their choice would not be given permission for placement at the burial site. This is a very valid concern. As part of our full service, we discuss rules and regulations in place at the burial site of choice. This prevents you from making a choice which would not be allowed to be placed in the relevant churchyard or cemetery.

We know that when our services are called upon, the call comes from people in a time of considerable emotional distress and upheaval. An important aspect of our work is to always be compassionate, understanding and supportive of these circumstances. We do all we can to ensure our memorials are of exceptional quality, and that they are both safe and permitted to be placed at the final resting place of the deceased.

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Headstones have been a hugely popular form of memorial for many years, and they serve many purposes. They are used to mark and delineate a person’s final resting place, announce their name and the dates they lived, and provide them with a lasting legacy so people will know exactly who has been laid to rest in this location for decades, or even centuries to come. These are all hugely important functions, so for many people choosing the right headstone is a crucial task and something they want to ensure they get absolutely right.

Before purchasing a headstone, it is always important to consider the rules and regulations at the chosen cemetery or churchyard. Not all burial sites have very strict rules, but it is likely that there are some guidelines you will need to follow to ensure your chosen memorial is allowed. For example, an old-fashioned, historic churchyard is unlikely to accept a contemporary headstone design made from high-gloss polished stone.

Once these details have been considered, you will need to think about the shape, size, design and material of the headstone. As long as you remain within the guidelines of the burial site, the possibilities are practically endless, with grave markers being made in a huge array of colours and materials, personalised with text and images of your choosing. All of these aspects are very personal choices, and something that should feel right and true to your memories of the deceased person, so feel free to take your time making the selection.

As specialists in the creation of memorial plaques, headstones, ledgers and other forms of memorial with many years of experience, we are always happy to advise you on these types of issues and work closely alongside you to ensure that you are not only completely happy with the memorial design, but also that it will be allowed in your selected cemetery or churchyard. We also provide free cemetery fixing across the entire UK, so you can rest assured the headstone of your loved one will stand proudly and securely for many years to come.

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The last few years have seen a marked increase in the number of people who seek interment for cremated remains. Traditionally it has been the accepted practice for the bereaved family to take the ashes of the deceased away for private safekeeping or dispersal. While many people still do this, the requests to secure a final resting place for ashes have risen. Our memorial masons design and create columbaria which allow this service to be offered by churches and formal burial sites in the UK and around the world.

Columbaria provide a respectful way to lay ashes to rest. While designed and crafted in a way that is mindful of the importance of a dignified appearance, they serve to address a number of practical considerations. As has been widely reported, many graveyards and churchyards in the UK are running out of space to accommodate burials. A columbarium makes efficient and practical use of the space available, all while ensuring that a beautiful memorial stands in remembrance of the deceased.

Columbaria have been relatively rare here in the UK for many years, with traditional headstones being the preferred choice. Despite this, our memorial masons are known for their expert craftsmanship and have many years of experience in creating columbaria. Many countries, particularly Italy, China and the United States, have regarded interment in columbaria as a natural choice. We have had the honour of designing, making and exporting many columbaria to these nations. Our reputation for excellence in memorials means that overseas clients have often sought us out for this purpose.

With interment of ashes now being accommodated by many churches and other formal burial sites, there is an elevated level of demand for columbaria. We are proud of the fact that our work has made us the leading choice for these types of memorials. Our team of masons are able to design and build columbaria which provide safe and secure storage for cremated remains, as well as giving the appearance you want.

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When it comes to creating a memorial for a loved person, one of the most important steps in the process is selecting the epitaph. This is essentially a short piece of text which honours and commemorates the deceased person, and will be inscribed on the grave marker, plaque or ledger which marks their resting place. Some people will choose their own epitaph before their death, while others will be selected by the family members or friends who are choosing the memorial.

An epitaph can come in many different forms. In the majority of cases, they will contain the person’s name and their dates of birth and death. They may also contain details about the life of the deceased person, such as their family relationships, their career, or their passion. Some people opt for epitaphs which are taken from holy text, a favourite book or song, or which are well known sayings or pieces of wisdom.

Selecting an epitaph for a loved one can be challenging, and there are various factors which need to be carefully considered. Firstly, you will need to consider the length. On most memorials, space will be fairly limited, so many people like to keep the epitaph short and concise. Another thing to think about is the fact that the words you choose will be on this memorial for many decades to come; the best epitaphs are timeless and classic, and remain relevant forever. If you are choosing an epitaph, it is always advisable to give yourself plenty of time to make the right decision.

Another matter to consider is whose voice the epitaph will be in. Will it be in the form of the family speaking to the deceased person, or in their own voice? Will it be speaking directly to someone, or just convey general information about the person? Ultimately, the epitaph is an extremely personal choice and should be something that feels right to you, rather than being influenced by anyone else. Whatever type of inscription you wish to create, you can rest assured our skilled memorial masons will expertly apply it to all types of adults and childrens headstones and other memorials.

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Children’s headstones are available in many shapes, styles and designs to reflect your special memories. They are often much more elaborate than memorials for adults and can be shaped like favourite cartoon characters, teddy bears and hearts, among other popular designs and symbols. Even simply-shaped grave markers may feature inscriptions to make them personal, or even to add colour to the piece.

Some headstones for children even feature kerb sets. The kerbs enclose the grave and indicate the boundaries of the plot. They add an extra flourish to the design and also protect the grave from people walking around the site. Clearly marking the plot out makes it less likely that people will step on it, helping to keep the site unspoilt.

There is an added benefit of kerbs that can also help to add more colour to the site. The enclosed space between them can be covered with colourful chippings and infill. The materials are available in a range of colours, from natural shades of granite to white marble as well as blues, greens and purples. You can choose the child’s favourite colour or opt for a shade with a special meaning. White is a popular choice for a child’s gravesite because it symbolises innocence.

At UK Memorial Service we design, manufacture, deliver and install children’s headstones, memorial plaques and other forms of memorial across the UK. We offer stunning products that can be customised as well as producing bespoke ones. Our kerb sets are available in many designs and give each client the option to choose from a wide range of different chipping and infill materials to complete the memorial.

When you order a memorial from us you can always expect a brilliant service from start to finish. We work closely with all clients, delivering a one on one consultation to ensure your needs are met, get to know your wishes and offer the right kind of support. You can browse a selection of our children’s headstones on our website. If you have a special idea in mind please contact us and we will discuss manufacturing with you.

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When a bereaved family is considering what to do with the cremated remains of a loved one, it would be fair to say that a formal burial ceremony is often not initially considered. For a great number of people, the idea of a cremation ceremony is that it replaces the traditional burial which often forms part of a funeral service. While many people do see the matter as a choice between either cremation or a burial, it is very possible to bring together both ceremonies when laying a relative to eternal rest.

Many people choose to either scatter ashes at a location which was important to the deceased, or to otherwise retain them in a suitable vase or urn. However, these are not the only two choices available. There are no rules or regulations which prevent holding a burial for cremated remains at churchyards or at burial grounds looked after by local authorities. A great many people find peace and comfort from having an established final resting place, making this an option that is certainly worthy of your consideration.

Our team of dedicated memorial masons craft headstones, kerb sets, ledgers and markers designed specifically for cremation services. We know and understand just how important it is to have a headstone to mark the final resting place of a loved one, and that such an installation can bring exceptional comfort and peace it brings to the bereaved. The placement of a headstone allows for the details of the life of the deceased to be recorded permanently, and provides a place for pause and reflection for all who knew them.

The establishment of a final place of eternal rest for loved ones is not limited to those who elect to have a formal burial. With cremation ceremonies being the most frequently selected option in this day and age, holding a traditional burial service for ashes is coming to be viewed as a perfectly natural part of a funeral service. We take honour in ensuring the service is complete with the creation of the most suitable form of ashes memorial.

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April 2016 marks the 75th anniversary of the Belfast Blitz in World War II. Northern Ireland had been barely touched by the war up until the 7th of April 1941. It was believed that the city was too far north for German bombers to reach and it was therefore very poorly protected. Sadly the belief proved to be inaccurate and the city was heavily hit by four attacks.

The first of these came on the night of 7th April. The attack targeted the docks and destroyed a factory manufacturing aircraft. It is believed that this first bombing was designed primarily to test the defences of the city.

A larger attack followed on 15th April when up to 200 planes were involved in the bombing. The waterworks of the city were targeted initially to prevent fire fighters from tackling blazes across the city. Large parts of Belfast were heavily damaged, including 55,000 homes, 2 hospitals and 11 churches. Over 900 people lost their lives.

A third attack hit the city three weeks later on the evening of 4th May. This time the 250 German bombers focused on Harbour Estate and Queen’s Island, destroying the valuable docklands. So many incendiary bombs were used that the attack was referred to as the Fire Blitz. The number of casualties as a result of the attack exceeded 150. A fourth and final raid came the following evening.

The second attack on Belfast was the worst wartime raid on Britain outside of London. It was commemorated on the 75th anniversary with a weekend of services including one at St. Anne’s Cathedral and another at the War Memorial. During the former 1,000 candles were lit to symbolise the lives lost.

Belfast City Council is said to be considering a permanent memorial to the Blitz. The piece would commemorate the lives lost as well as the contributions of so many in the wake of the attacks to help save lives. If plans go ahead the piece would become one of several memorials across the UK, including the one in London and the new plans for a trail in Sheffield. As creators of adults and childrens headstones, we look forward to seeing how these plans develop and to the design that will be chosen.

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Memorial benches can be found in a huge number of places, from churchyards to parks, riversides to shopping centres. They add a great deal of value to each setting they are placed in, giving family and friends of the deceased as well as other visitors somewhere to sit, relax and reminisce. Memorial plaques and engravings allow each bench to be personalised to make them even more fitting tributes.
Benches tend to look their best when they are surrounded by nature, whether it is in public or your own garden. This is particularly true when they are made from natural materials like stone and timber. Being around the natural environment has a beneficial calming effect on people too, and can help them to deal with bereavement.

If you do want to place a memorial bench in a public setting you’ll need to get appropriate permission. You can contact your local council for advice about placing benches in parks and other public settings. Each one will have their own rules you’ll need to abide by. Churchyards and cemeteries may have slightly different requirements in place. If you are thinking about installing a bench at either type of site, again permission will be needed. In both cases you will need to satisfy any restrictions on the design.

Installing a memorial bench in your own garden is easier because you don’t need to worry about permission. You’ll have more freedom in terms of the design and the positioning you can choose, allowing you to be as creative and selective as you want.

At UK Memorial Service we provide a range of very special benches made from the same beautiful stone we use to make headstones, memorial plaques and other types of memorials. They will look stunning in all kinds of gardens and complement your landscaping, flowers and greenery. Each bench is made in-house by our skilled team so you can expect a beautiful finished product. We can even add an inscription for you, making sure your bench is absolutely unique. Take a look at our brochure to see the full range of options.

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When a person opts for burial after their death, in the vast majority of cases they will be laid to rest in a designated churchyard or cemetery. However, for some people, a burial closer to home seems like the most personal and desirable choice. It is usually possible for a loved one to be buried in your private garden, as long as certain rules and regulations are followed.

Firstly, the death must be officially registered along with a valid death certificate. The next step is then to seek the permission of local authorities and the land owner, if that is not yourself. Once permission is granted, you may choose to dig the grave yourself, or ask professionals to take care of the task. It is not legally required to use a coffin, but depending on your location there may be regulations about the depth of the grave. It is also important to make sure the soil conditions are appropriate, and that the land is not too sandy, boggy or rocky.

When a person is buried in your garden, it is legally required that you adhere to the laws outlined in the Control of Pollution Act 1974, as well as the Environment Protection Act 1990. As part of this, the burial site should not be within 10 metres of a water supply, whether standing or running, or in any position where it could pollute a body of water. You will also need to add the details of the burial location to the deeds of your property.

Many people have concerns about safety and hygiene when it comes to burying a relative on their land, but once they are interred, the site is perfectly safe and you have nothing to worry about. However, it is important to consider what will happen if you ever decide to sell the property. The chances are that you will be reluctant to move away and leave your loved one’s burial site behind, and it can also make it much more difficult to find people who are willing to buy the property, so this is a matter which needs careful thought before you commit to a garden burial.

One of the best things about having a burial on private land is the fact that you are free to install any kind of memorial you wish for without having to worry about adhering to cemetery rules. You can select your ideal kerb sets, headstones, plaques and other memorials to mark the grave site perfectly.

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Knowing that death is an inevitable part of life, many of us make plans in advance for others to follow after we pass away. Prior plans and arrangements will ensure that you are remembered in the way you want to be, and it also lifts responsibility from your family and loved ones at their time of bereavement.

When making a plan, one important consideration is what to do with your ashes after the cremation service. With cremations currently making up 80% of all funeral services, it is highly likely that this will be the option you select. Many people wish for their remains to be scattered over a favourite location. Although the sentiment behind this can be understood by all of us, such a decision should be reached only after also giving thought to the wishes of those who will remain behind. Family and loved ones might wish for a more traditional form of resting place to be established.

For many bereaved people, there is a preference to have a burial site for those that have passed away. Many find that such a location brings them a great deal of comfort and peace of mind, as they are able to visit the loved one at a place where they are in eternal rest. A traditional burial of the ashes after a cremation service is something to be considered for the sake of those who will remain behind. Biodegradable urns are often chosen for this purpose, providing an eco-friendly way to contain the ashes as they are interred.

Our masons enable you to have a perfect focal point for the bereaved. We offer a significant range of cremation memorials, all of which can be placed at either burial sites or at a location which you would feel to be most suitable. We also have a range of small adults and childrens headstones which can be installed at the spot where the ashes have been interred. Although there is some understandable emotional appeal to the notion of having your ashes scattered at a special place, on reflection, many people find that burying the ashes feels like the right option for them.

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A ledger memorial is usually a large slab which lies flat over the entire surface area of a grave, offering comprehensive protection for the site as well as plenty of room for inscriptions and decorations. If you want to enhance a ledger memorial, you may wish to have a kerb set installed around the entire edge, providing an extra layer of defence while also adding an extra aesthetic dimension.

Kerb sets are an extremely traditional form of memorial which have been used for centuries, and essentially consist of kerbs which run around the entire perimeter of a grave. Made from strong, hardwearing materials such as marble and granite, they are built to last and in many cases have stood proudly for centuries. They are often seen in historic churchyards and cemeteries, but with the endless possibilities of modern memorial design, there are many kerb sets which can be used to provide a beautifully contemporary appearance to a grave.

Kerb sets can also be installed on their own in the absence of a ledger memorial, or can be used in combination with a headstone. If there is no ledger, many people choose to fill in the empty space over the grave with stones, coloured chippings or other protective materials to protect the grave from erosion and other problems. Whichever style you go for, kerbs will give a stunning neat and tidy appearance and offer a timelessly beautiful effect.

There are various ways to customise a kerb set. You may have the kerbs directly inscribed, or some people opt to have memorial plaques affixed to the kerb set with relevant information included, such as the person’s name with dates of birth and death. Our versatile team will always strive to bring you the ideal memorial to help you remember and reflect on the life of your loved one and the happy memories you shared with them, so please take a look at our brochure to see the full range of available kerb sets.

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When a beloved pet passes away, there are several different options for giving them the perfect send off. There are various pet cemeteries throughout the UK where pets are interred in the same manner as people, often with ledgers, kerb sets and grave ornaments to memorialise them. This is becoming an increasingly popular option for bereaved pet owners across the country.

Many people wish to keep their animal friends close to them after they pass rather than having them in a cemetery, so they choose to have them laid to rest in their garden. This gives you the opportunity to memorialise your pet in any way you wish, perhaps with a headstone or by placing a special plant or tree over their resting site. However, it is important to ask your local council to make sure a garden burial will be feasible and that the grave site will be well away from any water systems.

If you do not wish to actually have your pet interred in your garden, you can still memorialise them there with an installation such as a slate, piece of carved wood or rock, or a plaque bearing their name and image. Gardens are often special spots for our pets where they love to play and spend time outdoors, so a garden memorial makes a fitting way to remember them. You may even be able to dedicate a bench or a tree in a local park to them.

Cremations are another option after the death of a pet, and can usually be carried out by a local vet. You can scatter the ashes in a particular place or keep them at home in an urn. Some people even opt to deal with pet ashes in a more unusual way, such as having the ashes made into cremation jewellery.

A memorial can be a useful way to help you deal with the loss of a cherished pet, just as it can be with the loss of a friend or family member. We offer a wide selection of memorials for animals and will always be happy to offer advice to help you choose the right option for your needs and budget.

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Pet funerals have become hugely popular in the UK over the last few years as people look for memorable ways to commemorate their beloved companions. In 2015 researchers Mintel conducted a survey to ask people in Britain how they marked the death of a pet. According to the data, one in four pet owners will now arrange a formal send-off.

The industry is now said to be worth over £100 million a year, and there are now many different options to choose from in terms of the funeral and commemoration. Pets can be buried or cremated, so owners can decide which to opt for. There are pet cemeteries and crematoria throughout Britain to cater for the increased demand.

Commemorative products and pet memorials come in more designs than ever before so people can choose a personal way to remember their pets. Owners can choose headstones and plaques, bespoke caskets and urns, or even have ashes turned into beads or diamonds so they can hold on to the memory of their companion.

The growth of the industry shows that Britain truly is a nation of animal lovers. Many people create strong emotional attachments to their pets, and the loss can be devastating. Giving pets a proper send off can help people to come to terms with their grief while also celebrating the qualities that made their pet special.

At UK Memorial Service we understand how difficult it is to handle the loss of a loved pet. That is why we offer a range of memorials that can be personalised in several different ways with text or your favourite picture. Words and images can be inscribed on the piece with care and precision, producing a beautiful finish.

We work closely with our clients to help them create the perfect design, offering support throughout the whole process whether we are producing a pet memorial or one of our adults or childrens headstones. We will confirm all details before we manufacture the piece, ensuring everything is correct. You can view the designs we offer on our website or contact us for information.

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People have been adding inscriptions to headstones for centuries to mark the graves of the deceased. Originally only personal information was added, such as the name and relevant dates. The evolution of churchyard burials led to the creation of larger memorials. The additional size left more space for information. Thus people started adding short epitaphs and phrases to the stones to personalise them even further.

Today headstones can feature long inscriptions, whether they are bible quotes, personal sayings, literary references or information about the accomplishments of the deceased. The words can be chosen to provide comfort for loved ones and to reflect the life of the departed.

When you consider what kind of inscription you should choose there are a number of things to keep in mind. The words you decide on are the most important but there may be some limitations, especially when it comes to church burials. Churchyards may place limitations on the text you can have inscribed on a headstone, possibly even restricting them solely to religious quotes and personal details. It is wise to enquire with the church itself to find out their rules.

There is more freedom to write personal inscriptions on headstones with a cemetery burial. There may still be rules in place to help preserve the site, but generally there will be fewer restrictions. Again you should check in advance to get a better idea of what you can and can’t have on the headstone.

At UK Memorial Services we create stunning personal headstones, memorial plaques and many other forms of memorials. We manufacture them ourselves and can therefore ensure they are personalised in a number of ways. We do the inscriptions in house so our clients can select from an array of different fonts and finishes. When you choose us to supply commemorative products you can be confident we will check the inscriptions for you, ensuring they are correct and added to the piece effectively.

If you would like advice about inscriptions please contact us. Our service is designed to guide you through the whole process of creating a lasting memorial, ensuring you get the best support throughout.

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This year, English Heritage will mark the 150th anniversary of the Blue Plaques scheme. The idea of placing memorial plaques on buildings with notable inhabitants was first discussed in the House of Commons in 1863. The scheme started three years later and the very first plaque was installed in 1867 at 24 Holles Street, Cavendish Square, the birthplace of Lord Byron. The Blue Plaque Scheme is now so beloved that similar schemes were launched across the UK and in cities all around the world.

To commemorate the milestone anniversary, a number of new plaques will be dedicated over the course of this year to celebrate people who have made significant achievements in many fields, including sports stars, movie stars, musicians and authors. Some of the new star names will include:

Freddie Mercury – A plaque will be placed on the house in Feltham, Hounslow, where the Queen frontman lived for several years starting in 1964.

Bobby Moore – The memorial for the England 1966 World Cup winning captain carries extra significance because 2016 is the 50th anniversary of the triumph. It will also be the first plaque to be placed in the Borough of Barking and Dagenham.

Samuel Beckett – A plaque for the author and playwright will be placed on the home in Chelsea he lived at for three years in the 1930s.

Tommy Cooper – The comedy great will be commemorated with a plaque on his former home in Chiswick, the property he lived in until his death in 1984.

The anniversary will also be marked with two special days of walking tours in May. The celebrations will give people a fantastic opportunity to see where some of the UK’s most famous names resided or where their achievements happened.

Alongside this, English Heritage will launch its new Blue Plaques app so that people can find the locations of the memorials throughout the capital. There are over 900 to choose from so people will be able to search and locate each one with ease. The app will also allow people to plot their own tours so they can visit the ones they are interested in. As designers and manufacturers of kerb sets, headstones and other memorial products, we look forward to this important anniversary and are glad it will draw attention to some of the UK’s most interesting and unique memorials.

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Earlier in February, Rome based SET Architects unveiled their new Shoah Holocaust Memorial in Bologna, Italy. The piece sits on the city square and is designed to empathise with the feelings of the victims of the tragedy. It captures the attention of the public with its two imposing 10 by 10 metre tall symmetrical steel blocks.

The blocks tower above the square and are separated by a narrow alley. They are placed adjacent to one another so that they converge, meaning the gap starts at 160cm at one end before narrowing to just 80cm at the other, creating a feeling of increasing oppression when people walk through. On the inside of the memorial there are steel boxes designed to represent the cells and dormitories of concentration camps.

The path between the boxes is paved with ballast to represent train lines. Lights are installed in the floor to illuminate the structure and cast shadows in the boxes when they come on at night, creating a haunting effect. During the day the path is dimly lit as light filters in from above and from the sides.

The two blocks are made from Corten steel, a group of alloys that develop a stable layer of corrosion when they are exposed to the elements for a period of time. The rust will spread over time, making the piece look like it is ageing. The material was chosen for this reason and because it means the piece will not need regular painting to protect it.

The Bologna Shoah Memorial becomes the latest in a new wave of Holocaust memorials. Last year a former home at Westerbork concentration camp in the Netherlands was enclosed in glass to preserve the structure and ensure it stands as a lasting reminder of the tragedy. Canada will soon become home to a National Holocaust Monument. It is currently the only allied nation without one but plans are in place to resolve this with the creation of a memorial in Ottawa.

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The spelling of Elvis Presley’s middle name on his memorial is the subject of a well-known urban legend. Although he was given the middle name “Aron” by his parents, it appears on his headstone as “Aaron”. Many people with overactive imaginations have taken this as a sign that the singer didn’t really pass away in 1977. The truth, however, is simply that his name was inadvertently given as “Aaron” on his birth certificate and his family knew he preferred this spelling, which is why it appears this way on his grave marker.

This well known incident serves as a reminder of just how important it is to thoroughly check the planned inscription for a headstone or memorial before work commences. As a complimentary and supportive part of our service, we always provide a layout of the memorial to you before we begin creating it. This allows you to see how the memorial will look and, importantly, enable you to check that the dates, wording and spelling are all correct and in order.

While we are renowned for engaging only the most talented accredited memorial masons to create headstones in a traditional way, we have embraced aspects of technology which enhance our work. Our use of technology enables us to create perfect layout plans and designs of proposed memorials. We are particularly proud of this service, as it affords the bereaved the opportunity to change and alter the plans in order to find the most appropriate layout.

It is important to never lose sight of the fact that a memorial is something which is intended to stand perfectly for many decades, reflecting not only the details of the life of the deceased, but also their loved ones’ feelings for them. This is why we always place great emphasis on our service of providing layouts for memorials. While it is crucial to check details such as the correct spelling and dates, it is just as important to be able to get a clear visualisation of how the memorial will look.

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Over time headstones and other memorials left outside will be exposed to all weather conditions, from hot sun to frost, snow and high winds. This can cause wear and tear, resulting in the pieces losing their natural colour. To tackle the problem each memorial will require some basic maintenance. This includes cleaning and taking steps to preserve it. Alternatively, you may wish to initially choose a material like Portland stone that can look better with age and wear.

Before getting started, take note of the type of material the stone is made of. This will determine what kind of cleaning you need to do and what products you should use. Some products will do more harm than good, particularly strong household cleaners. The memorial needs to be firmly anchored in place so it doesn’t shift or topple over while you work on it, so if you notice any shifting or instability it is essential to have the memorial repaired before attempting to carry out any maintenance.

Limestone and sandstone memorials can flake and crumble over time. Look for signs of this before you start cleaning so you don’t cause more damage. When dealing with worn areas you should use as little water as possible and be very gentle when wiping the surface. Avoid using harsh brushes and acidic cleaning products.

Marble is slightly easier to clean because it is a firmer stone. You can clean it with an ammonium hydroxide cleaning product and a soft bristled brush. Work to remove any mould, mildew and dirt then carefully rinse and wipe the stone to remove the cleaning solution.

Granite is an even harder stone so it can withstand more vigorous cleaning. Over time calcium deposits can build up, affecting the colour of the memorial. These can be removed with a non-metallic brush to freshen up and protect the stone. You can use non-ionic soap to clean the piece if you need to. Again you’ll need to rinse and wipe it down afterwards to finish.

Some people like to use sealant to give the stone some extra protection against the elements. This is fine in some cases but it is important to be careful. Use the sealant when the stone is completely dry so that moisture does not become trapped underneath. It is best to wait after cleaning and choose a warm, dry day when you can be sure there is no chance of moisture getting locked in.

Our kerb sets, ledgers, headstones and other memorials are designed to hardwearing and resistant to the elements, so there is no need for extensive cleaning and maintenance work, but with the occasional gentle clean you can keep them looking their very best. Don’t hesitate to get in touch with us if you would like more information about this or about any of our available memorials.

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The lettering inscribed on headstones is only one part of the overall design. Many people also opt for images and graphics, as they can mark the final resting place of someone in an appropriate way. Symbols are a popular choice for headstones but people are often unsure of what they represent. Here are a few commonly used symbols and their attached meanings.

A book is often used to represent the Bible and can be perfect for those that had strong faith. Alternatively, a book can also be used to reflect the knowledge of the deceased, perhaps if they were teachers or simply enjoyed the pursuit of knowledge or had a great love of reading.

An anchor symbolises hope and eternal life. For many years it was used by Masons to denote well-grounded hope and is popular amongst nautical lovers and is often found on the monuments of sailors.

Birds are usually a symbol of peace. The Egyptians used birds in flight as a representation of the winged soul. An alternative option is to use wings alone.

A butterfly can be used to represent rebirth or resurrection. It can also be used as a reminder of the natural cycle of life and death and is widely used on the headstones of children.

The symbol of the Celtic Cross was revived in the mid-19th century and has endured as a popular choice for gravestone inscription ever since. It simply combines a cross with a ring surrounding the intersection.

The circle is an ancient symbol of eternity. As it has no beginning or end it is seen by many to symbolise resurrection.

Clasped hands can be seen on many gravestones. The hands are typically male and female and could represent a parting or unity in life as well as death. The hands are often used for the side by side burial of couples and family members.

The dragonfly is a symbol of lightness, change and joy as well as a connection with the spirits of nature. It symbolises departed souls in several Native American traditions.

These are just a few of the many symbols that are often used in gravestone design. There are of course no right or wrong ways to inscribe the memorial of a loved one, all that matters is that you feel you have paid appropriate personal tribute.

We have a talented and experienced design team that will ensure your memorial is elegantly inscribed with the words and symbol of your choice. We provide compassionate, affordable and friendly services and we are the largest supplier of memorial products, grave ornaments and adults and childrens headstones in the UK.

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It is customary in many religions to mark the grave of a deceased loved one with a monument or stone. In Judaism, it is an ancient custom to erect a Matzevah, or a monument, to identify graves. The exact design and style of the memorial will vary according to individual preferences, as with all memorials, but there are certain traditions and customs which are specific to those of the Jewish faith.

There are no specific rules about the type or size of memorial, but the design will need to adhere to the regulations laid out by the chosen cemetery. The inscription will usually include the deceased person’s English and Hebrew names, along with their birth date and death date in both English and Hebrew.

Usually, there will be an unveiling ceremony within the first year after the death. A eulogy will given by either a rabbi or a family member and the Kaddish will be recited before the tombstone is revealed and formally dedicated in the presence of the mourners. The specific customs involved will depend on the preferences of the family and their particular beliefs, and many families make adjustments to the traditional service to make it more personal to their loved one.

One of the most well known traditions surrounding Jewish memorials is the placing of stones on the monument, which is often done after the unveiling as well as every time the grave is visited afterwards. There are many traditional reasons behind this custom, but in simple terms it represents the lasting presence of the person’s memory and shows that someone has visited the grave.

As versatile memorial manufacturers and masons, we regularly provide headstones, memorial plaques and grave markers for people with a wide variety of different beliefs, faiths and preferences. Whether you wish to create a memorial which is in accordance with your particular religious belief or would prefer a secular memorial, our skilled team can provide a bespoke solution that suits your requirements. Please contact us if you would like further information about what we can do for you.

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When choosing a cremation urn, headstone or memorial we urge our customers not to rush into making a decision. If you and members of your family are struggling to make a choice or you feel you are not yet ready, it is advisable to take the time to think and explore your options to be sure of deciding on an appropriate cremation memorial.

The last 50 years have seen the number of cremations rise significantly, and as the most extensive supplier in the country we are able to meet the varied requests of customers on a nationwide basis. Our selection of memorials features cremation headstones, kerb sets, vases and much more. We offer our products in a wide range of sizes and we can change each design and layout to meet the individual preferences of our customers. Our team will always be happy to go through the different styles with you and help you choose a design and shape that best represents the deceased.

Cremation headstones are a time-honoured way of keeping those we lose close to us and maintaining a sense of physical connection. It is not uncommon for elderly people to select their own cremation vessel and headstone to ensure the right choice is made and that their loved ones are spared the responsibility when the time comes.

Whatever kind of urn or cremation memorials you have in mind, we can help you settle on the ideal one. We have a helpful and friendly team with the experience and knowledge of our product range to offer beneficial guidance. We do not believe in pushing our products; instead, we provide a sensitive service and speak to our customers on a one to one basis to make sure they are completely happy with their final choice.

You can choose between a selection of cremation stones in assorted colours including the traditional and classic polished white marble or the darker, elegant beauty of black or blue granite. Each one can easily be inscribed with the words of your choosing, you can select from several lettering styles and our design team will ensure your emotions and sentiments are encapsulated perfectly.

Our cremation memorial products are all crafted with care and close attention. Along with immense product quality we provide the finest customer services and offer direct savings to our customers.

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When a child passes away, many families find great comfort in creating a beautiful final resting place for them. A headstone or memorial is a physical expression of the love we felt for a person and a way to preserve our precious memories of them, and we are dedicated to creating memorials which are not only beautiful but also hardwearing and expertly installed.

Headstones are an eternally popular choice and can be seen at cemeteries and churchyards around the country. No matter where your child is being laid to rest, we can provide an appropriate headstone that will encapsulate your memories and sentiments while also adhering to the rules of that particular burial site. Each child’s headstone in our range features a unique and eye catching design, from traditional imagery such as hearts and angels to beloved cartoon characters. Our memorial vases make the perfect addition to a child’s grave and can be used to hold flowers, balloons and any other items you wish to leave securely in place.

Alongside our range of childrens headstones, we also offer ledgers and kerb sets specifically designed to be placed over a child’s grave. It is natural to have protective feelings towards a child’s grave site, and kerbs and ledgers provide a comforting sense of enclosure and protection, defending the grave site from weather conditions and erosion.

We currently have a brand new range of childrens memorials in various designs and colours, and each one can be personalised and decorated in a way that suits your tastes and expresses your sentiments about the child you loved so much. Our team will be happy to guide you through the different choices and make sure you are completely happy with your selection, so please do not hesitate to contact us and find out more about our various childrens headstones and memorials.

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We are well known for offering the widest and most diverse selection of adults and childrens memorials available in the UK, in a range of designs, shapes, sizes and materials. It is always our goal to make sure our customers are completely satisfied with the finished memorial and to make sure they understand all the options available to them.

As well as choosing the design memorial itself, you will need to consider the type of finish you want it to have. Alongside the material, the finish will have a major impact on the final appearance of the memorial and can also help it to last longer without any need for maintenance or touch ups. There are several possible options when it comes to choosing finishes for headstones, kerb sets, memorial vases and other memorial products.

Many people opt for a polished finish, as this provides a smooth, shiny and impressive appearance. However, it is important to bear in mind that some traditional churchyards may not allow polished memorials due to their reflective quality not fitting in with the historic atmosphere of the grounds. If you do not wish to commit to a fully polished memorial, you may also choose a part polished finish. Part polished memorials are usually shiny and glossy on only one area, such as the inscribed face of the headstone, while the rest is matte.

A honed finish also provides a stylish and uniform smooth texture, but is less shiny and reflective than a polished finish. These are generally suitable for most churchyards and cemeteries, so you should not face any concerns about the acceptability of your chosen design.

If you wish a memorial to have a more rugged look, a pitched finish could be the way to go. This type of finish gives the appearance of a natural piece of stone, with a rougher, more individual and less uniform appearance which can look extremely impressive in the right setting. Pitches headstones look stunning in traditional or natural burial grounds, complementing their surroundings perfectly.

For something a little more unique, some people choose a tooled finish. This can involve the memorial masons inscribing or carving patterns or specific textures all over the material using the most suitable tools for the task.

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It has always been our goal to provide our customers with the widest and most diverse selection of memorial products available anywhere in the UK, and as part of this we have updated our product selection to get ready for the New Year. Our newly updated product range includes a host of cremation memorials, headstones, and much more. Among the most distinctive memorials in our brochure, you will find several beautiful granite kerb sets.

Granite is widely used in the creation of headstones and kerb sets because it is an extremely strong material which can sustain years of different weather conditions without deteriorating. This is particularly important for kerb sets, which are intended to provide protection for the grave site and defend it from erosion.

Alongside strength, we know that people also want memorials which look amazing. Granite certainly fulfils this need. The stone itself has a beautiful aesthetic quality and texture, with natural details and flecks of colour creating a stunning visual effect that will stand the test of time. When enhanced with ornaments and inscriptions, granite can make a big visual impact.

Our kerb sets come in various styles and designs to suit your individual preferences, but one thing they all have in common is that they are extremely strong and durable. We have kerb sets in classic, dramatic black, beautiful soft grey, and distinctive ruby red. They are also available with various additions to suit your preferences, such as grave ornaments, ceramic printed photographs and plaques.

As with all our products, our kerb sets offer superb value for money as well as great design and quality. If you wish to add text to the set, the first 100 letters are free, and we also offer secure fixing to ensure your chosen set remains strong and hardwearing for many decades to come.

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Headstones for teenagers or young adults are often designed differently to those which are created for older adults. Many families wish for the memorial to reflect the young, vibrant personality of their child and to encapsulate the happy memories they shared during their time together. There are many possibilities when it comes to choosing memorial designs for a young adult.

You may be able to include elements that reflect their hobbies and passions; for example, a football for a keen sports player, a paintbrush or pen for a creative artist or writer, or a musical instrument or notes for a keen music fan. Of course, many families opt for traditional symbols and motifs such as angels, birds, crosses and flowers to signify sentiments of peace, love and eternal rest. If you wish, you can include a photograph of your child on the headstone to preserve their memory forever.

Besides the design elements, you will also be considering what kind of epitaph to include. For many families who have lost a teenager or young adult, a personal inscription is the ideal way to remember them. Teenagers often feel very passionately about their hobbies and cultural interests, so the epitaph could include lyrics from a favourite song, a passage from a favourite book or even a quote from their favourite film that they loved to repeat.

The choice is a very personal one and will be different for each and every family. Whatever style of memorial you go for, our expert team will be on hand to advise and to create beautiful, fitting designs for your much-loved child. We will never rush your decisions, and will provide you with layouts before any work goes ahead to ensure you are completely satisfied with the design. We understand that selecting childrens headstones is one of the most difficult decisions you will ever make, which is why we do all we can to make the process as easy as possible for you.

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On the 5th of January, ground was broken on a 1916 Garden of Remembrance in the historic Forest Park in Springfield, Massachusetts. The garden is the first of its type in the USA and will commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Easter Rising, when Irish republicans launched an insurrection against British rule as they sought to establish an independent Republic. The ceremony was attended by Springfield’s Mayor, the local Congressman, city officials and Irish Vice-Consul General Meg Laffan.

The Forest Park covers an impressive 735 acres, making it one of the largest urban parks in the US. The Garden of Remembrance will be a beautiful addition to the park and is sure to attract even higher numbers of visitors. Once finished, it will feature seven oak trees to commemorate the individuals who signed the Irish Proclamation. A stone replica of the document will stand as a permanent memorial to the Rising. Two flags, American and Irish, will be permanently on display too.

The garden is designed as a living memorial to the men and women who gave their lives for Irish freedom. The space was designed by renowned Irish landscape artist Diarmuid Gavin. He created seven different designs to ensure a fitting tribute was chosen to mark the occasion. Each one featured the oak trees, replica of the Proclamation and an Irish flag.

The location for the garden memorial has been carefully chosen because Massachusetts has a very strong Irish community and cultural links with Ireland. In fact many people fled to America in their search for freedom. Many people from Western Massachusetts can even point to ancestors who were involved in the fight for independence in 1916.

The memorial will join those being created in Counties across Ireland to mark the centenary of the Easter Rising and the Garden of Remembrance that opened in Dublin in 1966 on the 50th anniversary of the insurrection. As creators of memorial plaques, headstones and other memorial products, we look to these unique memorials with interest and take inspiration from their creative, unique designs.

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When a child or young person passes away, it is important that everyone involved in the practical issues offers compassion, support and comfort to the bereaved family, from the funeral directors to the memorial masons. We are here to create the most fitting and apt form of children’s memorials for our clients, helping them to grieve the loss of their loved one and preserve their cherished memories forever.

One of the strongest and most admired characteristics of our society is the fact that communities can usually be counted on to rally around bereaved families during their darkest times. Over the years, our services have become known for delivering this much needed support.

We have always known that our work is far more than the delivery of a product or service. Beyond creating and installing childrens headstones and memorials which are designed to stand for many decades, we know that those who require our services are in need of strong emotional support. From day one, we always build an attentive one-to-one relationship with our valued clients. Our goal is to give you the much needed comfort and confidence of having a designated person that you can reach out to and contact to discuss your memorial at any time. In our experience, this is something which is even more important when we are creating a memorial for a child.

The loss of a child is one of the most difficult experiences anyone could ever face, and in an ideal world parents would never outlive their children. Our service is designed to help with the grieving and healing process which we must go through after the loss of a young life. Our children’s memorials cannot heal the pain entirely, but they do provide a means to celebrate the wonderful life which has now left us, and allow for positive, uplifting thoughts and memories of the child or young person who is now at rest.

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A special sculpture entitled “Knife Angel” is being created as a permanent memorial for victims of knife crime in the UK. The piece will be made from over 100,000 knives collected from 43 police forces. The weapons were handed in during an amnesty or seized as part of investigations and will be used to create the tribute.

The finished piece will stand 24 feet tall and will feature blades of varying length, including swords, machetes, kitchen knives and smaller weapons. The sculpture is the idea of the British Ironwork Centre, one of the biggest supporters of the knife amnesty, and English designer Alfie Bradley. Each weapon is sterilised and blunted before being welded to become part of the angel.

The memorial will feature a number of blades that have been specially carved by people whose loved ones have been victims of knife crime. In fact the British Ironwork Centre reported that a number of families travelled to visit them specifically in order to do so. This helps to give the piece a personal touch and shows that it can be a beacon of hope and remembrance for people who have lost loved ones.

The Knife Angel is expected to be finished in the autumn of 2016. Once it is completed the plan is to display it in Trafalgar Square in London before taking it on a tour of the UK. It is hoped it will help to increase awareness of the continued problem with knife crime.

At UK Memorial Service we understand how powerful bespoke memorials and sculptures can be. We are committed to producing these in our own way, whether we are creating stunning bespoke headstones or memorial plaques to commemorate cremations. We are passionate about our work and will produce unique designs for each of our clients, delivering a bespoke piece that will reflect their memories of their loved one. You can see our collection of products on our website and contact us for any further information you need.

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The placement of flowers at the final resting place of the deceased is a tradition which dates back many years. It is a peaceful mark of respect, with certain flowers coming to symbolise and represent different meanings and forms of memory. Although carrying flowers to a burial site is a very meaningful act for many, there are some who wish to have a particular flower in place at all times. The purpose of our work is to create memorials that are perfect for your requirements, so we are proud to be able to supply bronze painted lily plaques for this purpose.

As we mentioned, certain flowers take on great significance and symbolism when paying respects to the deceased. This is certainly true for lilies. On a very broad level, many believe that the presence of a lily represents the restoration of innocence to the soul of the deceased. In the eyes of many, white lilies also represent a sense of sympathy for those who knew and loved the deceased, as well as reflecting that they lived a good and pure life.

Keeping this is mind, it is understandable why so many would wish to have a lily permanently placed as part of a memorial. We completely understand how important memorials can be to the bereaved as part of the healing process, which led us to create our bronze painted lily plaques. Our artisans and masons have carefully designed the plaque in such a way that it may be displayed on its own or be safely and seamlessly incorporated into other forms of memorials, such as headstones or kerb sets.

We are certain that we are not alone in considering the lily to be a beautiful, elegant and charming flower in its own right, as well as one of the most symbolic and meaningful blooms. This sense of beauty is enhanced when it is placed in association with a memorial for a loved one. Our gifted artists have captured both the beauty and the meaning of this flower within our elegant bronze painted lily.

If you are seeking to place a permanent flower as part of your memorial, we would be honoured to help you. Whether you wish for a lily to be placed or another form of flower, we will do all we can to ensure you are completely happy with the memorial we create.

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Looking for a headstone or memorial is never an easy process. The last thing people need when dealing with grief and loss is to have to go shopping and deal with sales staff and pressure to purchase memorial packages. As a respected and trusted supplier of online headstones and memorial products, we offer each of our customers a simple and stress free service by allowing them to choose memorials online instead.

Choosing a memorial is obviously a very important decision and not one that can be made in an instant. People need time to think about factors such as size, shape, material, design and cost. When people visit suppliers, there is always the chance that they may feel pressured to make a decision quickly, or they simply may be uncomfortable and feel the need to get away as soon as possible. This can lead to rushed decisions, leading to memorials that people are ultimately unhappy with.

When you choose your memorial online, you are free to browse from the privacy of your own home with absolutely no pressure. An online service enables you to closely check out every product at your leisure and take all the time you need to make a decision. You will not have to worry about travelling around looking for the right memorial, as you will have a world of choice at your fingertips.

We carry a vast and diverse range of products so we are confident that we can meet every individual need. The selection includes grave markers, ledgers, kerb sets, children’s headstones, plaques, vases, urns, mausoleums and more. Our large choice of products makes the process much easier for our customers, as we can readily offer products to meet every specification.

We believe that there should be no kind of pressure involved in memorial selection, and this includes financial pressure. We do our utmost to help our customers save money by using no middlemen, so we are your first choice for affordable memorials in the UK. If you wish, you can call up and talk to a friendly member of staff who will do their best to advise you, offer you the best possible options and help you settle on the right memorial.

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There is nothing more personal than a photograph, which is why they are so often involved in funeral ceremonies and memorials all around the world. From placing treasured family photos into a loved one’s casket, to displaying portraits of our deceased relatives in our homes, photos give us a visual record of the people we loved and provide us with a way of keeping our memories close. For all these reasons, many people also choose to include photography on the physical memorials they create for their relatives and friends.

Plaques or medallions bearing a photograph of the deceased person can be seen in many cemeteries around the world, providing a poignant visual memento of the person and adding a personal, unique touch to ledgers, headstones and kerb sets. As part of our versatile service, we are able to create these stunning memorial plaques for our customers.

All you need to do is send us a good quality copy of your chosen photo and we will transform the image into beautiful ceramic plaque, ready to be affixed to a headstone, memorial bench, ledger or any other kind of memorial. Our ceramic photo plaques are approximately 4 by 3 inches, and as with all our memorials and accessories, they are priced to be as affordable as possible so you don’t need to spend a fortune to memorialise your loved one.

Our ceramic memorial plaques are created using expert techniques and are made from the strongest, most durable materials available to us, so you can rest assured they will continue to look vibrant and clear for many years to come. If you would like to discuss a design for one of these plaques or need us to create any other form of memorial or accessory for an existing headstone, please do not hesitate to contact our team. We will do all we can to ensure you receive a perfect final design.

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Historic England recently decided to review the status of 44 war memorials designed by celebrated architect Sir Edward Lutyens. This was part of their wider pledge to list 2,500 monuments as part of the First World War centenary. Lutyens’ work is beloved because he used pure architectural forms to create symbols of enduring memory and dignity, leaving behind fitting tributes to the people who gave their lives in major conflicts.

The 44 memorials he designed include 15 war crosses. Perhaps the most celebrated of these is the one that stands at The Heugh on Holy Island. The monument was unveiled on 4th June 1922. It is made from Doddington stone, the same material that was used to build Lindisfarne Priory. Lutyens chose it specifically for this reason.

The memorial has withstood extensive harsh weather over the years because of its positioning. The top of the monument had to be replaced when the shaft was damaged by a winter storm at the end of 1983 and start of 1984. It was lovingly restored because the piece is an important part of the small community; the families of several of the men whose names appear on the monument still live on the island.

When Historic England reviewed the status of the Holy Island War Memorial they took the importance of the piece and its history into account. They decided to upgrade the status from Grade II to Grade II Star due to the fact that it has “more than special interest”. This means it joins a select group of structures and will receive the protection it deserves.

The 100th anniversary of the First World War has inspired people across England to remember the contributions that people made during one of the worst conflicts in human history. It has seen a number of new memorials dedicated and existing ones restored. The move by Historic England to upgrade the status of several monuments, including those by Lutyens is a perfect accompaniment to this. As creators of kerb sets, ledgers, headstones and other memorials, we find structures such as these inspirational.

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Over our many years of providing memorials, quality and strength have always been at the forefront of our approach. We have also always strived to keep our prices as low as possible so our customers do not have to spend beyond their means on memorials.

Despite our low prices, we appreciate and respect the fact that certain forms of memorials are simply beyond the financial means of the bereaved. We are certain that under no circumstances would the deceased wish for those left behind to find themselves in financial difficulty through the placing of a memorial. This is why we offer a selection of highly affordable adults and childrens headstones and other memorials designed for optimum beauty and style at minimal pricing.

Although we are renowned for our high quality, enduring and dignified marble and granite headstones, we create and supply memorials in many different forms. Whether due to cost or because there is no formal burial place, memorial plaques and vases are seen as the perfect way to commemorate the deceased. We work only with sympathetic suppliers and employ masons who are dedicated to the importance of what they do, so we are always able to create all forms of memorials at the lowest costing possible.

The affordable pricing of our memorials should not be seen as any sort of reflection of their quality. The marble, granite and slate we use are all of the highest grade. This allows us to create headstones and other forms of memorial which have very low maintenance requirements. The fine materials we use mean that they are also enduring, with our memorials standing in perfect condition for many decades.

When the time has come to place a memorial for a loved one, there should be no worries or concerns around affordability. This is a matter that we are always conscious of. We always aim to be as supportive as we can for the bereaved, so we would never seek to encourage people to consider memorials which are beyond their means. We will be of every assistance to you in finding the most fitting memorial for your needs and budget.

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When selecting memorial plaques, headstones and other types of memorials, the lettering is one of the most important factors to consider. After all, it will be expressing your feelings, sentiments and essential information about the person, so you want to make sure it looks perfect. There are several different methods of lettering to choose from, each style with its own unique advantages.

The most traditional and well known method is for letters to be cut into the stone by hand. This produces beautiful results when done by skilled masons, but is a labour intensive method. Lettering can also be sandblasted into the stone, and sometimes finished with paint or gold leaf for a more polished effect. This is one of the most popular lettering methods due to the fact that you can choose from many different font styles, and it is a more affordable technique than hand cutting.

You can also opt for raised letters which are applied onto the surface of the stone or metal, as opposed to being carved into the material itself. The contrast between the raised lettering and the surface can make an impressive visual impact and means the letters will be highly legible. This type of lettering is also less likely to gather dirt and debris, which makes them an extremely low maintenance option. However, they will still benefit from care and cleaning to keep them looking at their best.

When we are creating memorials, we always work closely with our customers to ensure that the lettering and every other detail on their memorial is perfect. Whatever style and method of lettering we are applying, we take the time to ensure excellent results so we can create a stunning product dedicated to the memory of your loved one. We offer a wide range of fonts and lettering styles to be applied to all our memorial plaques, ledgers and headstones and the first hundred letters are completely free, giving you even greater value for money when you opt for our service.

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For many of us, the final resting place of a friend or family member is a special place where we can think, reflect and pay tribute to them. For all of these reasons, we want to do everything we can to protect their grave site and make sure it stays in excellent condition. There are several possible ways to do this and ensure that their grave remains safe and protected.

We have mentioned in previous blogs that headstones need to be periodically cleaned, but if you want to add an extra dimension of protection, you can also purchase consolidating products which can be applied to the stone and give it an extra layer of defence against the elements. These products are better than standard stone sealers as they still allow the stone to “breathe”. Some people choose to place railings around a grave site to clearly mark the boundaries so that people don’t walk over a burial site, which can potentially cause damage and erosion.

Another way to ensure that a grave site is protected is to install a kerb set. These sets surround the entire site and deter people from walking over the grave, particularly if the middle section is covered with a granite slab or filled in with stone chippings. They do not only offer many practical benefits, but also look amazing, adding a classic and traditional touch to any grave. We offer a wide selection of stunning kerb sets in hardwearing materials which will offer optimal protection for a grave for many decades to come.

These traditional memorials can also be personalised with inscriptions and designs of your choice so you can make them extra special. Just get in touch with us if you would like to learn more about our kerb sets, ledgers and the other unique memorials we offer to our customers. We will do all we can to ensure you have a special place to visit your loved one for many years to come.

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With cremations now being far more popular than burials, many people lament what they see as the loss of traditional forms of memorial. Whilst memorials such as headstones and kerb sets can be placed where ashes are buried, in many instances the ashes are not buried after being cremated. Memorial plaques are becoming increasingly popular as a way to express remembrance in those instances where there is a lack of a traditional burial site or final place of rest.

In recent times, there has been an increase in the number of people opting for our granite memorial plaques. Although traditionally this form of memorial is usually made from bronze, there are a number of reasons for selecting granite instead. Bronze is beautiful and hardwearing, but may require a higher degree of maintenance, needing to be cleaned at least once a year.  Granite memorial plaques are equally aesthetically pleasing and have lower maintenance requirements.

Granite memorial plaques can also usually created within a far shorter amount of time than bronze ones. There are many instances where the bereaved wish to have a memorial placed as soon as possible, and we always aim to ensure our clients’ wishes are met. Although we never rush our work and are always dedicated to creating outstanding results, it is usually the case that a granite memorial plaque can be created in days, whereas a bronze version would normally take weeks.

We will always be happy to discuss the merits of different materials as you decide between granite or bronze. Our expert knowledge and advice will help you make an informed decision, and you have the assurance that we will only carry out work to the highest standards. Our plaques are not reserved for cremations; they are also ideal for affixing to adults’ or children’s headstones.

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When an expectant mother miscarries before 24 weeks, there is no formal recognition of the unborn baby. Some hospitals will provide a certificate in memory if requested, but many parents find the absence of legal recognition difficult to deal with, as they feel their grief is not being officially acknowledged. It is perfectly understandable to experience a sense of bereavement and loss after a miscarriage, just as we would with the loss of any other family member. In these cases, it can be very helpful to create or do something to mark the loss of the unborn child.

Some people choose to hold a funeral or ceremony following a miscarriage, although this is entirely down to individual choice and preference. Holding a memorial service in the hospital can be comforting for some parents. Many people opt to create a memorial at home or in an alternative location that means something to them.

Choosing a memorial for a child is something no parent ever wants to do, and though the process is difficult it can go a long way to helping you feel like you have done something special for your baby. Many people choose to plant flowers or a tree in their garden or a local garden of remembrance to honour their child, sometimes enhancing them with engraved memorial plaques.

We understand the importance of commemoration after you have experienced a loss. If you wish to place a headstone or memorial in your garden or other location, we can offer you durable, strong and affordable products which are personalised to your wishes. Our collection is larger than any other in the UK, and we offer discount products that are constructed with care and provide beautiful tribute along with excellent value for money. Whether you wish to write your own words for your baby or you wish to choose from our verses our design team will ensure your wishes are met. We can also incorporate scan pictures and other images into children’s memorials, if required.

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Purchasing a memorial can be a challenge; after all, it is not usually something that we will have purchased many times before, if ever. We understand that many of our clients will be buying a memorial for the first time, which is why we do all we can to ease the process and make sure you are entirely happy with your purchase. Here are some of our tips to help you think about what you should be considering when it comes to buying a memorial, headstone or grave marker.

– The location. It is a good idea to start looking for memorials after you have established which cemetery or site they will be placed into. Many cemeteries will have rules regarding shapes, sizes and designs so it is important to know that your chosen memorial will be allowed in the place you have selected.

– Material. There are very good reasons why materials such as granite, bronze and marble are so widely used for memorials; they do not only look fantastic, but they are also extremely hard wearing, which is a must for outdoor memorials. We use quality polished granite for our memorials alongside other durable materials, offering long lasting results.

– Personalisation. If you are planning to have a memorial inscribed with text or images, you need to know that the company you choose are skilled enough to complete the inscription to the highest standards of skill and accuracy. We have been crafting memorials for decades and possess full BRAMM and NAMM accreditation, giving our customers peace of mind that they are working with a highly talented team.

– Pricing. Choosing a memorial can be stressful enough without added financial pressure, so you need to make sure you are working with a company that offers realistic pricing. We provide some of the most affordable kerb sets, ledgers and gravestones in the UK, and will craft a memorial for you at a price you can afford.

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A funeral is always a very personal occasion, and organising a funeral for a child who has passed away can be one of the most difficult challenges we ever face in life. A funeral for a child is often a very different type of occasion than a service for an adult, but as with any kind of funeral service, this is entirely down to personal choices and preferences. There is no right or wrong way to plan a child’s funeral, but here are some of the matters you may wish to consider when you are faced with this task.

– Choosing funeral directors. They can help you to make the necessary arrangements, such as booking the venue and the officiant for the service. It is not compulsory to use the services of a funeral director, but they can make the planning easier and offer support throughout the process.

– The eulogy and Order of Service. The eulogy offers a chance to reflect on the special memories you shared with your child, but many people understandably find it overwhelming to have to write a eulogy and deliver it in public. If you do not feel you are able to deliver the eulogy, your officiant can do it for you. If your child had a favourite poem or book, you could read a passage, or play their favourite song.

– Dress codes. Many people opt for a more relaxed dress code at a child’s funeral than they would at an adult’s service, with a move away from the traditional black clothing. Many parents request that attendees wear the child’s favourite colour, or something that represents one of their passions and interests. This is entirely down to personal choice and the comfort of the funeral guests.

– Transportation. There are many different options, from traditional horse drawn carriages for a child who loved animals, to classic hearses, to non-traditional vehicles and even motorbikes.

– Floral tributes. Many local florists will create personalised floral wreaths, letters and other tributes to represent and pay tribute to the child. Some people choose certain flowers for their meanings and symbolism.

– Memorials. Before or after the funeral service, you may wish to consider creating a headstone to mark the child’s final resting place. We have a range of children’s headstones especially designed for this purpose, incorporating both classic and modern designs, which can be personalised in any way you choose.

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Ledger memorials are becoming a more frequent sight at burial grounds and church graveyards across the UK. These impressive memorials are not only used to commemorate community leaders and dignitaries; as prices become more affordable, many have come to appreciate the distinct benefits the offer, and they are suitable to commemorate anyone who we loved and cared for. As the leading name for memorials in the UK today, we know there are several reasons why ledger memorials have increased in popularity.

One of the greatest concerns around burial sites and cemeteries in the present day is ensuring the safety of people who visit to pay their respects. There have been a number of cases where headstones have been allowed to fall into disrepair and have toppled over. Whilst we craft, build and expertly install long lasting headstones which do not pose these risks, we understand that many wish to avoid headstones but still want a dignified and traditional memorial for the deceased. In these cases, a ledger memorial is an ideal way to meet all of their requirements.

Our ledger memorials are made from the finest granite available, giving the assurance of a durable, low maintenance and long lasting presence. We are also able to provide inscriptions, as we can with our memorial plaques and headstones. Ledgers are designed to lay level on the ground above a final resting place, so the possibility of them being knocked over or falling down is removed, ensuring the safety of all who attend the burial site over the years.

These memorials are often a good deal larger than a traditional headstone. This allows you to have a more detailed inscription placed upon it if you wish, along with images and graphics. Over our many years of service we have been able to bring comfort to friends and family of the deceased by ensuring that they can create a truly unique and personal memorial for the person they loved.

We are dedicated to ensuring that the people of the UK may have the perfect form of memorial for lost loved ones at supportive pricing. Whether you believe a headstone, a ledger memorial, a kerb set or another form of memorial would be the most fitting, we will assist you in any way that we can.

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There is an old proverb which states that death is the great leveller. This is because no matter what sort of lives we led, ultimately when we pass away we all become equal. In a practical and philosophical sense, this is true. However, there are still differences between us after we pass away, and these are in the ways in which we are laid to rest and commemorated. Whether you are seeking to place a subtle or distinct form of memorial for a loved one, our expert skills and abilities are at your service.

Few memorials are as prominent or inspirational as kerb sets. Their subtle elevation means that they are prominent and visible in burial grounds, yet remain respectfully unobtrusive against the natural, peaceful setting of their environment. They also offer comprehensive protection for the grave site, protecting it from damage and erosion and helping to keep your loved one’s resting place in excellent condition.

As we all know, the cemeteries and burial grounds of the UK place a strong emphasis on health and safety regulations for headstones and memorials. However, the majority of grounds still allow kerb sets to be placed. As is the case with all forms of memorials, there are rules and regulations which govern both their size and location. We work in close co-operation with the authorities of sites to ensure that the kerb sets we design and create meet the requirements. Your kerb set can be combined with a traditional headstone or plaque or can stand on its own as a unique tribute.

Kerb sets allow those who have passed away to be remembered in the distinctive way in which their lives were lived. We focus in making the highest quality enduring, long-standing kerb sets, and we do all we can to make this form of memorial as affordable and accessible as possible.

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Many people have financial concerns around funerals and memorials, but there are certain ways you can alleviate the financial pressure. If you are on a low income, you may be eligible for a Funeral Payment to help pay for burial or cremation, transportation costs, travel to the funeral, and other expenses such as the coffin and funeral directors’ fees. This will give you some extra time to make plans for the funeral and deal with formalities without having to worry about paying for funeral costs straight away. You will usually have to pay back the money from the deceased person’s estate. Many people find that this payment goes a long way to helping them through a difficult time when they do not wish to be worrying about expenses they cannot afford.

The amount included in the payment will depend on your individual circumstances, your relationship to the deceased person, and any other benefits or tax credits you receive. The payment must be claimed within three months of the funeral, using form SF200. You can also claim over the phone. If the person had a pre-paid funeral plan, you will only receive financial help for items which are not covered by their specific plan.

As well as the cost of the funeral itself, many people have concerns about the price of installing a headstone or other memorial at their loved one’s resting place at a later date. We know that many of our customers are under financial pressure when a loved one passes away, which is why we focus on keeping our prices as competitive as possible. We provide adults’ and children’s headstones at affordable prices so that you can invest in a beautiful memorial without having to break the bank. Please take a look at our full range of discounted memorials and we are confident you will find something that is ideal for your needs. If not, our skilled team will be happy to work with you to come up with a bespoke design.

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Agatha Christie is celebrated as the bestselling author in the world with sales of her books estimated to be anywhere between 2 and 4 billion. Only Shakespeare and the Holy Bible have sold more. She is closely associated with her birthplace in Torquay, but also spent much of her life in London, living in several addresses and writing many of her novels there.

There are several reminders of Christie across the capital, including memorial plaques on two townhouses: Cresswell Place and 58 Sheffield Terrace. She wrote 16 of her celebrated novels whilst at the second address, including the world famous Death on the Nile.

Alongside the homes she lived in, Christie’s work is also celebrated in the West End. St. Martin’s Theatre has been running a production of The Mousetrap for 39 years. Prior to this it was hosted at the Ambassadors Theatre next door, starting from its opening night on November 25th in 1952. This continuity set a world record when the show exceeded 25,000 performances.

In 2012 The Mousetrap celebrated its 60th anniversary and the event was celebrated by the installation of a 2.5 metre tall bronze monument to Christie by St. Martin’s Cross. The memorial is shaped like a book and includes a bust, images of her works and information about her. Fans from around the world voted for the top 50 book titles to decide which of her novels would appear on the piece. These are written in more than 30 languages and in Braille too.

Agatha Christie definitely left her mark on the literary field and pleased billions of fans with her works. The fact that the novels have inspired theatre productions, movies and television shows is also proof of her talent and skill. It is fitting that she is celebrated in London as well as Torquay, the two locations that played a big role in her life, and these memorials demonstrate how many different ways there are to commemorate a unique person.

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The death of a popular and long serving teacher or school staff member can have a considerable impact on students, staff body and community as a whole. The professionals that educate and care for our children for many years occupy valuable positions in our lives, making a positive contribution to their development.

Some teachers teach at one school for the entire length of their career, often resulting in them teaching the children of their former pupils. A teacher that spends many years at one institution becomes part of the furniture and part of the personal history of generations. When teachers such as these pass away, their loss can affect people of all ages throughout a community.

Young children can develop very close connections to their nursery, primary and junior school teachers. They serve as the primary care-givers and source of support when kids are not with their parents and when they pass on it can be difficult for children to understand and adjust to their absence.

Schools undoubtedly suffer a significant loss when a valued staff member passes away but it can be helpful for children and adults alike to plan exercises that help them deal with their collective grief. It has become very common to erect memorials on or close to the school grounds in order to pay personal and respectful tribute to the lost teacher.

Memorials often contain beautiful words and graphics that reflect on the importance of the person and the role they played within the school. Children can develop an understanding of loss and how to deal with it by being actively involved in creating meaningful commemoration. Overall, a memorial serves as an eternal reminder of the mark the teacher made and the importance of remembering them.

We design and construct memorials of all shapes and sizes, from kerb sets to plaques to ledgers to headstones, and we offer quality products with flawless finishes. We understand the difficulties when a treasured person is lost and we offer all the advice you need to select the right memorial for your school and beloved staff member.

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It should go without saying that memorials are something which should not, under any circumstances, be designed, crafted and created by anyone other than dedicated and qualified professionals. In order to identify those who have proven capable of creating professional quality headstones and other forms of memorials, the British Register of Accredited Memorial Masons (BRAMM) was established in 2004. Here at UK Memorial Service we are very proud of our accreditation from this organization, as it gives those who require our services the confidence that they are receiving the very best available.

BRAMM accreditation is only awarded to those memorial masons who have shown they not only create memorials to the highest standards, but can also ensure the headstones are correctly and safely fixed in place. The requirements of BS 8415 are used to measure the performance, with the expectancy being that work should meet and exceed this in order to be awarded accreditation. Due to the high standard and values their accreditation has, the overwhelming majority of burial sites in the UK will not permit memorials to be placed if they have been created by non-BRAMM members.

Being awarded BRAMM accreditation is not a one-off matter. Those who are accredited must regularly apply for their licence to be renewed, with relevant inspections and reviews of the work being taken first. This process ensures that standards are not allowed to slip, and to this end BRAMM also routinely remove accreditation from companies that no longer meet the standards of safety and quality.

We have all seen stories on the news that have seen headstones either being refused permission to be placed, or have received an instruction to have them removed. In virtually all cases it has transpired that the work was not done to the set and expected standards of BRAMM accreditation.

We appreciate that it is difficult to choose adults’ and children’s headstones for loved ones, but when approaching someone to create a memorial for the deceased it is important that you are working with professionals. Our BRAMM accreditation gives you the assurance that we can create and install the perfect memorial for your loved one.

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When someone dies, the importance of feeling comfortable with the way the remains are interred cannot be overstated. If you are planning a funeral in the aftermath of a loss, we are here to help you make the right choices. Grief is very real for all of us and the process cannot be rushed, but making decisions that feel right can aid your grief and offer comfort.

Customisation is one of the greatest advantages of cremation. If your family member, close friend or loved one left clear wishes to be cremated, you will be able to opt for specially crafted and designed cremation memorials that allow you to pay the perfect tribute to the deceased.

Whether you hold a religious or secular service we can offer you beautifully constructed and exquisitely engraved memorial products for a burial or memorial site as well as a wide variety of urns for the storage and scattering of the ashes.

A further advantage of cremation is the time it allows you to make the right decision. If you are unsure of what to do with the ashes you can simply store them until you are ready. It is not always easy to know the best thing to do when  dealing with the shock of a recent demise, but cremation can give you the time and space you need to think.

If you have an allocated memorial site or you choose to bury the ashes, we can supply quality memorial plaques, cremation stones and vases that will offer the perfect commemoration. Each product can be created or customised to suit your preferences and we assure our customers of the long term strength and durability of every memorial item we supply. Whether you choose to store, share or scatter the ashes we carry a collection of urns including biodegradable. We can personalise your items and as the leading supplier in the UK we offer discount prices, value for money and the highest calibre cremation memorials.

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70% of all funeral services in the UK take the form of a cremation. Although the practice of cremations has been popular around the world for some time, it has only been relatively recently that this approach has overtaken traditional ground burials. However, the increased choice of cremation services does not mean that everyone wishes to move away from all of the traditions associated with funerals. We understand this, which is why we dedicate ourselves to creating dignified, lasting cremation memorials of all kinds, from urns to headstones and kerb sets.

Columbaria are perhaps one of the rarer forms of memorial, but this is changing in order to accommodate the wishes of the growing number who wish to have a cremation service along with a formal final resting place where their ashes can be stored. There have been movements recently which indicate some churches will soon be establishing columbaria within their grounds.

A columbarium perfectly allows for the ashes of a number of people to be laid to rest in a dignified manner. The ashes are stored safely and securely in an individual compartment, with the door to the resting place providing a suitable location to put a plaque with an inscription on it. We design and create the complete requirements for a columbarium, using only the finest materials. Our BRAMM and NAMM accredited masons ensure that nothing short of perfection is imbued in all of the work that we carry out. We are dedicated to ensuring people have long lasting, low maintenance, dignified memorials.

For several years our columbaria have been exported around the world, and this has placed us in the prime position to create and install them here in the UK. We believe that ashes memorials such as columbaria create a beautiful and unique way to memorialise a loved one and ensure their memory is preserved for the future, providing a stunning final resting place.

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People often wonder what the correct way to grieve actually is. As the initial impact of a death begins to subside, it gradually becomes clear to us that no correct way exists. Everyone has a personal response that is unique to them and the relationship they had with the deceased, and as we are all different we simply cannot be told how to grieve. Some people find it easy to discuss their feelings and allow others to see their emotions, whereas others struggle with that kind of honesty. If someone is finding it hard to open up about their feelings, it can halt the grieving process and make it harder.

When a family member passes it naturally has a huge impact on an entire household which can be made worse when one or more members become isolated from the others. When we connect with others that are bereaved it helps us find the strength to feel it and begin to come to terms with the loss. Grief can make us feel alone, but there is much comfort to be found in the support of our loved ones.

When we erect memorials to those that have passed it enables us to honour them in an intimate way. Headstones and grave markers let us mark their resting place with a personalised and fitting tribute. Selecting a memorial can be an effective way of uniting family members that are struggling to navigate their way through grief together. Choosing the right headstones and designs is important and can give everyone the chance to make a positive contribution.

We carry a vast range of beautifully constructed adults’ and children’s headstones and we make our products available at affordable prices. Our products can be customised to meet precise specifications and as they are made from strong materials they are sure to be durable and long lasting. Our craftsmen are skilled and experienced and each of our memorials is professionally carved.

Our designers are some of the most creative in their field and they can produce the most exquisitely designed products. Whatever text, verse, pictures and carvings you opt for you can be sure of flawlessly beautiful results. We do not use middlemen, ensuring our capabilities of offering you the finest possible prices for the highest quality headstones and memorials.

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Memorial benches are a popular sight in the UK and the US and can be found in a wide array of different locations. They often feature memorial plaques that are engraved with the personal information of the person they are a tribute to. Some of them also have inscriptions with religious passages, poems or literary quotes. In a few cases they go a step further and even showcase the humour and character of the deceased.

One of the most famous plaques seen on a bench reads:

“In memory of Roger Bucklesby. Who hated this park, and everyone in it.”

The bench can be found in a popular park in North London and pictures of it went viral after being posted online. It raised a storm, causing countless arguments about whether it was real or not. The plaque is actually real but is also a hoax at the same time. It was created by author Jamie Maslin. He invented the character, creating a full back story about an author who struggled to get his work published and spent time in the park to find inspiration only to begin to resent the location.

The plaque was originally intended to amuse passersby and it achieved its goal in spectacular fashion with the attention it received online.

Although it is not technically commemorating a real person, the plaque sits perfectly alongside other humorous ones that have been seen around the world. A bench in St. Andrew’s Square, Edinburgh reads “In memory of Rene Lauener (1916-1993) who liked to sit down”.

Inscriptions on memorial benches should be personal and give the people that pass them by and take time out to rest on them more details about the person they are commemorating. They are fantastic tributes to loved ones and help to ensure that their memory lives on. Choosing a bench, a location and deciding on the inscription can also help people to work through their grief. If you’re planning to install a bench as a tribute to a special person, we can provide benches, memorial plaques, engraving services and everything else you need to complete the memorial.

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When looking for a truly traditional style of memorial, many people opt for the enduring elegance offered by kerb sets, which can be found in cemeteries across the UK. These sets offer a classic style and continue to be an incredibly popular choice for the final resting places of family members and loved ones.

A kerb set provides a surrounding headstone for the whole grave. They are perfect for singular placement, or they can easily be combined with a traditional upright headstone. They are versatile memorial items that offer vast flexibility. We carry an extensive selection that is sure to offer the solution to every need. Our products can be modified and adapted to meet your specific requirements, and we pride ourselves on delivering a bespoke service if requested.

The interior area of the kerb set can be filled with loose chippings in a varied range of colours. This not only protects the surface of the grave against weather conditions and people walking over it, but it also lets you create the aesthetic appearance of your choice. If this is not to your liking you can opt for the placement of a ledger or slab to provide a solid covering. The surface can easily be complemented with graceful designs such as graphics, images and text.

Our kerb sets are constructed from the highest quality and most durable materials including granite and marble. Each product will provide the best level of protection for the grave of your loved one and you can be sure of successful resistance to strong weather conditions.

We know the importance of memorials as well as the financial burden they can place on us when we are bereaved, which is why we offer affordable and discount prices. Our services are designed to reduce pressure and ensure a simple and stress free process. Grief can of course be very difficult, but we are a professional and dedicated team that provides every customer with a supportive and compassionate service. We can offer beautifully and carefully carved kerb sets, ledgers, vases, plaques and much more.

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Many people look for an alternative to earth burial as the idea of placing their deceased loved ones in the ground makes them uncomfortable. Mausoleums offer the ideal solution to this problem as they enable the body to be interred above ground in a dry and sealed crypt. Mausoleums have become more popular in recent years due to the lack of available space in UK cemeteries, as well as the numerous other benefits they offer.

Mausoleums are used widely throughout the world for various reasons. They are the primary method of burial in New Orleans, as the plots are shallow due to the high water table. After a few feet, the graves become filled with water and the caskets end up floating in their own plots. For a very long time mausoleums were associated with impressive monuments designed to house great leaders but over the years they have become a popular method of interment for individuals, families and communities all over the world.

A mausoleum offers an enclosed burial place that can withstand the effects of weather and time. The remains are kept in a clean and dry space and for many people this offers a respectful and preferable form of interment. They can also save you money overall. If you opt for a walk in mausoleum that can hold multiple caskets it can be used for the burial of other family members, which proves cost-effective over the years.

We can provide freestanding or walk in mausoleums and each one is constructed from strong and durable granite. We offer a bespoke service and each vault can be customised to suit your specifications. If requested, we can also apply additional granite to the exterior of the mausoleum. Our family mausoleums are able to hold up to 12 caskets and you can select an interior style to match your tastes. We can also modify our freestanding mausoleums if you are pre-arranging your funeral or an existing burial spot has insufficient space available. We also offer granite memorial benches for the secure storage of cremation urns.

With a mausoleum, you will be able to visit with those that have passed on privately and peacefully. You will be sheltered from bad weather, high temperatures and external noise. Our vast selection of adults’ and children’s headstones, benches, and memorials offers you the highest possible quality and we are pleased to discuss your requirements at any time. Our friendly and supportive team will assist you with all enquiries.

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Memorial plaques make a beautiful way to preserve the memory of a loved one, and can be placed in almost any setting, which makes them one of the most popular forms of memorial we offer. Granite is the classic material for creating memorials, but we also have a range of stunning bronze plaques which are ideal for paying tribute and commemorating the life of a person you loved.

Bronze is an extremely strong and durable alloy which consists mostly of copper. It offers many benefits which make it a great material for use in memorials. One of the biggest advantages is the fact that it is highly resistant to corrosion, so it’s perfect for placing in outdoor settings where it will be subjected to changing weather conditions over long periods of time. It’s also known for being a ductile metal, which means it will not crack or become brittle, but will stand the test of time.

Of course, bronze is also widely admired simply because of the way it looks, alongside its practical qualities. It stands out from many other materials because it actually improves with age; as the years pass by, bronze develops an amazing patina which gives it a charm and character all of its own. There are many good reasons why it is the most popular material for use in metal sculptures, and with its combination of strength and beauty, bronze memorial plaques make stunning tributes.

We offer a range of different memorial plaques in various designs, shapes and styles to suit many different needs. They can be secured onto a headstone or memorial bench to provide the perfect finishing touch, or they can be affixed onto poles and displayed near memorial trees, in gardens or in any other location. Our plaques can also be inscribed with the images and text of your choosing so you can ensure they are truly personal and special.

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If you have a funeral or memorial service to plan for a departed loved one it can be very difficult to bring yourself to actually begin making the arrangements. It is natural to want to avoid shopping for headstones and memorials and equally understandable that you do not want anyone else to do it for you. Paying tribute to and commemorating the departed is a personal thing and we understand the need to select the most special memorials possible. We offer our customers a friendly, patient and supportive service and we strive to make the process as easy as we can.

Along with supplying a wide choice of products we also give our customers all the advice they need. After choosing your memorial the next step is engraving. Everybody engraves headstones and memorials in their own unique way as each inscription is personal. It can be a statement about the deceased or a message for others from the deceased. Alternatively, it can be descriptive and short or an elegant and simple verse. It can be the words of others or you can use your own words. Along with inscriptions your headstones and memorials can be accessorised with photo plaques. Photographs make a beautiful and poignant addition to any headstone or grave marker by eternally personalising and marking the resting place.

We can deliver a wide selection of products that can be adapted to suit your precise requirements. Our flexibility means that we can provide a tailored service and deliver the perfect memorial to every customer. Our state of the art facilities and skilled and experienced craftsmen ensure the delivery of products that exceed expectations and offer strength and durability. Every saving we make we pass on to our customers and we strive for value for money and a satisfactory service.

When you browse our website and brochure you will see that we have the largest selection available. From headstones, kerb sets and ledgers to cremation memorials, urns and memorials for pets and children we can meet your every need. We can craft and design your memorial in a range of materials including granite and marble and if you need help deciding on the right one for you our team is on hand to offer you all the assistance you need.

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The purpose of a headstone epitaph is to help us remember the deceased and to remind us of the everlasting bond we share with them, even after they have passed away. Epitaphs are a very personal choice and should not be influenced by others. It is very important that you are content with the words and images that you settle on, as they will provide you with great comfort as you visit the burial site of your loved one.

We know that many people understandably struggle to make decisions when they are dealing with grief. We are always more than happy to offer as much advice as we can and support you as you choose your memorial and inscription. Many people go for short and concise epitaphs as the “less is more” option gives you the chance to briefly sum up everything you want to say about the deceased in a few simple yet effective words.

Epitaphs naturally convey strong feelings. However, everyone is different, and it is important to remember that whatever makes you feel comfortable is the right tone and sentiment for you. It can be helpful to wait a short while after the death before you make any choices, as the pressure to make a decision quickly can lead to a final result you are less than happy with. By allowing a little time to settle, you can be sure of making the right choice and avoiding any regrets further down the line.

Epitaphs often convey someone speaking in the first person. You could consider which voice you want this to be and who you want them to speak for. Think about whom you want the epitaph to speak to. It could be you or a relative addressing your loved one or it could be the deceased addressing you and other visitors. There are many options and we do our best to ensure you choose the right one. You can say whatever you want in the form of your choosing.

We have a vast selection of beautiful adults and childrens headstones and memorials that are exquisitely and carefully crafted. Our gifted designers will place the inscription of your choice on your product whether you opt for traditional or popular verse or whether you compose your own epitaph from scratch.

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The International Bomber Command Centre is currently under construction in Lincolnshire, and is due to open in 2016. The location is a fitting one because during World War II there were so many air force bases in the area that it was referred to as Bomber County. Over one third of all stations (27 in total) were based in the county over the course of the war.

The Chadwick Centre is set to be finished in 2016 and will feature a comprehensive record of the role that the bombers played in the war effort. There will be exhibitions of photographs, documents and other artefacts such as artwork. Personal experiences of war veterans will be included, too. The centre will be an educational space and help to preserve the memory of the people that contributed so much to the war effort.

The IBCC will also feature the Spire Memorial, a 102 foot tall memorial based on the design of the wing of a Lancaster Bomber. Walls of remembrance will surround the spire. Each of these will be inscribed with the names of the 55,573 people that passed away whilst serving in the Bomber Command.

The Spire Memorial is set to be unveiled on October 2nd. The organisers are inviting all veterans who served in the Bomber Command during WWII to attend the unveiling ceremony. The IBCC already has the names of 900 veterans but it is thought there are more whose names did not appear on any databases or squadron lists. They are asking for members of the public to contact them with information to help them find and invite those people who may have been missing from their lists.

The International Bomber Command Centre will be a beautiful site once it is finished. A landscaped peace garden honouring all 60 nations involved in the command will give visitors a quiet place to contemplate. The Spire Memorial will be particularly stunning and coincides with plans to install new memorials across the UK to commemorate the men and women who gave their lives during WWI and WWII. In the UK we have a proud tradition of memorialising the deceased in unique ways, and we seek to carry on this tradition by producing beautiful and personal memorial plaques, headstones and other products.

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It is a common practise in the UK to leave flowers on graves as a tribute to loved ones. They can be left for all kinds of reasons, whether it is to mark a birthday, an anniversary, or just to show that the deceased has been in your thoughts.

Whether you leave flowers on the surface or place them in a vase, you will need to remove the flowers as they wilt. A good alternative to leaving flowers is to plant them. This means you can watch the plants grow and flourish, celebrating life and growth whilst also commemorating a passing. Planting lets you be more involved in the process and also means you can choose the varieties you want to plant. The work you put in will pay off because you’ll be able to see the results in the health and quality of the plants or flowers.

Kerb sets are an excellent idea if you are thinking of planting. The kerbs cover the boundary of the grave and frame it in a great way. They work in harmony with the headstone to create a truly special memorial. Additionally, they leave a clearly marked space that you can use for planting. This helps to keep things organised and means you know exactly how much space you have to work with.

When opting for kerb sets, it is important to check beforehand to make sure the churchyard or cemetery allows them. You should also enquire about the rules concerning what you can do with the space they create. In some cases you will only be allowed to plant specific plants, or may need to use coloured chippings and potted plants. The rules will be different depending on the site.

If you are allowed to plant in between the kerbs you will need to think carefully about which plants and flowers you want. It is best to opt for shorter ones that won’t grow too tall. You should also keep in mind how much upkeep and maintenance they need so you can ensure they continue to thrive.

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Churchyards all across the UK will have their own rules about headstones and other memorial products. These will affect the size and shape of the pieces as well as the type of materials you can choose. It is important to check in advance what the rules are, particularly before you start designing a product, or you could find you are unable to have the design you want.

Churchyards are likely to prefer traditional style memorials rather than modern ones with complex shapes. Many of them will have rules in place to help the site maintain specific aesthetics. This could include only using certain traditional materials like sandstone and limestone rather than marble, granite or slate. Again you should check this because some materials will cost more than others and have different upkeep requirements.

Churchyard headstones can be personalised in several ways, similar to other kinds of products. They can have images engraved in them and messages inscribed but you may need to be more conservative. Instead of images of cartoon characters and other things they will typically be engraved with more traditional things like flowers and crucifixes. The smaller, less complex engravings leave more room for inscriptions and put more emphasis on them.

At UK Memorial Service we have a very wide range of different adult’s and children’s headstones on offer, including designs in several materials. We strive to produce items that are the perfect combination of traditional and personal. All of the memorials are handmade by experienced stonemasons, ensuring they are beautifully presented. This also means we can provide all kinds of personalisation, including bespoke carvings, engraving and inscriptions.

Our range of products includes several kinds of sandstone and limestone in many beautiful colours. We have the classic York stone, churchyard favourite Portland stone and the beautiful Nabresina too. There are also several granite headstones specifically designed to look rustic and sit perfectly in churchyards.

It is our aim to supply the best products, satisfy the wishes of our clients and help them to meet the requirements of the churchyard. We are flexible and will always produce the highest quality headstones and memorials.

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When it comes to storing or scattering ashes after a cremation, there are many different options to choose from. Some choose to store them vases or memorial compartments, such as those in our granite benches, complete with memorial plaques. Some, however, choose to spread the ashes in a specifically chosen location. A growing trend in the USA is to scatter the ashes from a cruise ship, sending their loved one out into the ocean wind to be dispersed across the water.

The centre of the growing trend appears to be Carnival cruise lines, based in the United States. Figures show that, across their fleet, ashes are scattered four or five times a week, with over two hundred ceremonies organised each year. The cruise line organises the required paperwork, the ceremony and even provides a letter from the captain detailing the ship’s position where the ashes were scattered.

Carnival is one of the main cruise lines that allows customers to scatter ashes, as long as the process fulfils the relevant criteria and those scattering the ashes have permission. The regulations include ensuring the container is made of the right material, such as wood, plastic, cardboard or non-lead based ceramic; also, the ashes must be maintained in a leak proof and sealed container, and be able to pass through X-ray machines. The scattering must be performed at least twelve nautical miles from land, with the date and time planned out in advance. The ceremony is overseen by certain individuals including a member of Guest Services staff and the Environmental and Occupational Safety Officer. Some other cruise lines allow guests to scatter ashes, and some companies are even beginning to cater specifically to those who want to do this. However, it should be noted that not all cruise line operators allow it, which means those looking to do this need to check prior to making serious plans.

It’s certainly a unique method of dealing with cremated remains. Though permits are required for burials at sea to prevent resurfacing, there are fewer laws surrounding the spreading of ashes, although there are still requirements in accordance with the International Maritime Organisation. As this trend grows in the USA, it is not unlikely to believe that the trend could reach the UK, providing a particularly fitting tribute for those who loved the sea during their lifetime.

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Memorials come in many different forms, from small plaques to traditional headstones and kerb sets to huge structures. There are a number of memorial museums and remembrance halls across the globe to commemorate the lives of people lost in various events that have occurred in the world. These memorials serve as a reminder of what happened, boost cultural awareness and also provide educational opportunities. Here are the ten of the world’s most well known and significant memorials.

– Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, Japan

The museum was constructed in 1955 as a monument to the 200,000 Japanese people that lost their lives during the two atomic explosions that occurred in WW2. It preserves personal belongings of the civilians, including a famous watch that stopped the instant the first bomb exploded.

– Museo de la Memoria y los Derechos Humanos, Chile

The Museum of Memory and Human Rights is symbolic of the new-found freedom of Chile and commemorates the people who suffered under the dictatorship of Augusto Pinochet. It is one of the most powerful memorials in the world because it stands as a centre for culture, politics and philosophy.

– Auschwitz-Birkenau, Poland

This memorial complex sits on the site of the concentration camp and contains a number of the original buildings. The museum opened in 1947 to commemorate the lives lost here during WW2. It also stands as a memorial and contains a collection of objects that belonged to prisoners held here.

– Tuol Sleng, Cambodia

The former prison is infamous for what occurred here during the genocide of the Khmer Rouge regime. The museum is incredibly direct, showing graphic images of what happened to the prisoners held here.

– The Armenian Genocide Museum, Armenia

Medz Yeghern (The Great Crime) cost one million lives. The museum commemorates these people and serves as a reminder of what happened. It is another heart wrenching memorial that takes visitors on a walk through history including eyewitness reports and interviews.

– Yad Vashem, Israel

Built in 1953 and covering 45 acres, the museum complex is a monument to the suffering of Jewish people during WW2. It is one of the most incredible memorials in the world, particularly the Hall of Remembrance where the ashes of Holocaust victims are stored. The facility has a museum but also looks to the future with research facilities and education space.

– Nanjing Massacre Memorial Museum, China

This museum commemorates the 200,000 – 300,000 people that suffered and lost their lives during the Japanese invasion in 1937. The site has an outdoor exhibition space containing several sculptures and an interior with a huge coffin-shaped memorial containing the bones of victims.

– Apartheid Museum, South Africa

The museum is a lasting memorial to the socio-political tragedy of apartheid. It has a comprehensive permanent collection of artefacts, objects and photographs and also has themed temporary exhibitions too.

– September 11 Memorial, USA

This memorial site opened in 2014 to commemorate the attack on New York’s World Trade Center in 2001. The site features a museum below ground, twin deep pools where the towers once stood, and lush greenery.

– La Maison des Esclaves, Senegal

The House of Slaves is a lasting reminder of the Atlantic slave trade. The building is a maze of cells and hallways, showing the conditions that people were kept in before being sold into slavery.

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One of the most difficult situations any of us can face in life is the loss of a young person long before their time. When this occurs, it becomes all the more important to the bereaved to have a memorial in place to remember them by. We ensure that we create children’s headstones and other personalised memorials that serve this purpose with compassion and dignity.

There is no easy way to heal the pain and sense of loss experienced by the loss of a young friend or family member. However, creating a suitable memorial for the deceased or a beautiful headstone to mark their resting place can be of great assistance and help towards the healing process.

For any lost life, a memorial stands as both a record of who the person was and as a means of remembrance for all who knew them, as well as for future generations. Tradition would usually see the date of birth and date of passing recorded on a headstone, along with the name of the deceased. Many people draw strength and comfort from choosing a suitable inscription for a loved one’s headstone. This could be a personal memory, a phrase or verse reflecting a feeling which those close to the deceased associate very closely with them. Though we may feel sorrow that this child or young person is no longer with us, the epitaph preserves our fond memories forever.

With full BRAMM and NAMM accreditation and membership, we have an impeccable reputation for delivering the finest children’s headstones, memorials and monuments made from granite or marble. As difficult as the circumstances may be, we are always honoured when we are trusted to assist with designing and creating memorials for young people. We have the utmost respect for the importance of these memorials, and will provide outstanding craftsmanship and bespoke designs for affordable prices.

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Descriptive epitaphs have always been a part of cemetery lore. Cemeteries the world over offer a glimpse into the lives of the deceased. Some epitaphs talk about the passing, some focus on the life that was lived, some offer a lesson and some are humorous. The most prevalent memorials are undoubtedly headstones and grave markers. Headstones were the first type of memorials used and have prevailed throughout the centuries to be the most popular choice.

The first headstones were upright slabs that were often adorned with carvings such as hourglasses, angel wings and skulls, due to the fact that many people had difficulty reading the epitaphs. Puritan stones were designed to commemorate the deceased and convey a moral message, and each picture represented something different. The winged skull reflected the certainty of death, whilst the rising sun referred to resurrection.

The headstones found in very old cemeteries can be inspiring when we have to come up with an epitaph for the grave marker of a friend or loved one. Early stones were often inscribed with strong sentiment. Many people come across old markings that are too hard to translate. If you discover an image that strikes a chord, you can simply take a photograph and research its origin to locate its meaning.

We can help you with the inscription of your memorial vases, gravestones, kerb sets and any other kind of memorial you wish to personalise. We always offer a supportive service and our creative team will work with you and make sure that you settle on an appropriate epitaph. The words and images you choose are personal and there is no right or wrong choice, so we advise everyone to select the verse or graphics or both that feel right. The most important thing is that you feel sure your inscription pays appropriate tribute to the deceased.

Our vast selection of headstones, markers, ledgers and memorial vases are available in various durable materials and assorted styles and finishes. We carry discount products that save you money and can be customised to suit specific requirements. You can browse our online brochure or give us a call for advice and help with memorial selection.

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When it comes to selecting a memorial, one of the major factors to consider is the strength and durability offered. Monument construction has always been dictated by the available materials and tools, as well as the skills of the craftsmen. A combination of these aspects results in the creation of the finest memorial products. The majority of monuments that have successfully stood the test of time were made from stone. Granite, in particular, has the capacity to withstand the effects of the most extreme weather temperatures and other external elements that can impact negatively on other materials.

Granite is extremely heavy and possesses no salvage value. This reduces its vulnerability to theft. It is extremely unlikely that granite based materials will be stolen for profit. Granite can also resist most levels of vandalism and requires minimal maintenance. This ensures that the headstones and memorials of the deceased can be kept in good condition with little effort, as well as reducing long-term cemetery costs.

We manufacture the highest quality memorials for our customers. Granite construction offers all kinds of finishes and colours. We carry granite kerb sets, headstones, ledgers, grave markers and more. Kerb surrounds are ideal for marking a grave, as they can seamlessly blend with a headstone. As well as complementing the headstone, it can also be personalised with images and words of your choosing. A further advantage of a granite kerb set is its resistance to impact. Once securely fixed in place, the position of your surround will not shift if anything collides with it or if it is accidentally stepped on.

Our collection of memorials includes strong and long lasting granite kerb sets. We have an extensive selection of products, or alternatively we can provide a tailored service and produce a specially designed and crafted bespoke product. As a trusted manufacturer and supplier we remain focused on the consistent delivery of first class memorials that save you money and inspire complete customer satisfaction.

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Hope Cemetery in Barre, Vermont is one of the most widely visited cemeteries in the whole world. It attracts this attention because it is filled with over 10,000 stunning, unique memorials, including a half size copy of a racing car that was driven by Armand J. Laquerre III. The site covers 53 acres and visitors can walk around, take a guided tour or even drive themselves around to see the amazing works of art.

It may be the sculptures that make the cemetery unique, but the material they are made from is equally famous. They are all crafted from locally quarried Barre grey granite, one of the most popular materials for headstones and memorials in the US. The city is home to the world’s biggest deep hole granite quarry, Rock of Ages, and has produced a huge volume of stone over the years. In fact it is predicted that around 1 in every three in the country is made from the material.

The monuments in the cemetery include many contemporary designs. One of the most famous shows married couple William and Gwendolyn Halvosa sitting up in their bed holding hands with their tombs resting side by side below it. As well as this there is a huge football, a bi-plane flying over the clouds and a replica of Pieta by Michelangelo.

The beautiful memorials at Hope Cemetery show just how much thought and effort people put into commemorating their loved ones. Each piece is personal and many of them are artworks, creating long-lasting reminders of the life the person or people lived. They also display the skills of the talented artisans that make them.

At UK Memorial Service we subscribe to this same philosophy, designing adults’ and children’s headstones and other memorial products that are personal and made with passion. Everything we make is hand finished and bespoke as standard. We use the highest quality materials we can, including several different colours of granite and marble.

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Marking the final resting place of deceased people is an ancient practise that could date back as far as the Neanderthal period. Graves have been marked with stones, timbers, flowers and many other different things over time. The practice is very spiritual and has developed a long way including seeing several different materials used for the headstones.

Unworked stones were originally used but this changed over time and people started carving the stones and inscribing them. Early headstones as we know them were commonly made from slate because it was hardwearing. The downside of the material was it was tough to work with. Marble overtook it as a favoured material because it was easier to carve and available in various different colours. By 1850 granite had overtaken it because it is resilient, more readily available and is impressive aesthetically. It remains the most popular headstone material to this day.

Headstones need to be manufactured carefully by experienced stonemasons if they are to look their best and stand the test of time. The process can be long, particularly when you consider the amount of effort that goes in to mining the materials in the first place. Once suitable slabs of granite are available they need to be processed to cut them to size and polish the stone. All of this must occur before they can be carved into the right shape.

Modern methods have helped to speed up headstone production because several labour intensive processes can now be done by machine. This includes polishing the stones once they have been cut to size. Automated systems can drag the material along a conveyor belt with a number of rotating belts on them. These belts have differing levels of grit on them, from a highly abrasive one to felt buffer pads. The process smoothes the surface and produces a fantastic sheen.

Carving the finished stone into the desired shape can be done by machine or by hand by skilled masons. Once this is finished it will be polished again before the engraving and finishing is done. Stones can also be engraved by hand or be sand blasted. A final polish will be done afterwards so the headstone looks its best.

The amount of time it takes to manufacture headstones, memorial plaques, vases, and other monuments depends on several factors. The most pivotal of these is the type of material that has been chosen and the complexity of the design. When purchasing a headstone you should always consider the manufacturing time – we will be happy to discuss this with you so you feel fully informed about all aspects of the memorial manufacturing process.

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When headstones and memorials are positioned in cemeteries or any other locations, it is essential that they are fixed professionally. This will give them stability and make sure they stay upright throughout all kinds of weather. The installation should always be done by a qualified specialist (or specialists) to ensure the fixing meets the required standards for health and safety.

One important thing to consider when fixing a headstone is the type of ground you are dealing with. It is likely the stone will be heavy and when positioned it will put considerable pressure on the ground. To maximise stability it is important that the ground is well compacted. Loose soil will not provide a solid base and is likely to allow stones to move over time. You should also keep the porosity of the soil in mind because wet weather can affect stability too.

Without proper fixing, headstones and other memorial pieces such as plaques, ledgers and kerb sets can all shift over time. In the worst cases, they can sink and end up getting covered over by soil and turf. When this happens, it can cause a great deal of damage to the stone, as well as preventing people from viewing it and respecting their loved ones.

At UK Memorial Service we provide professional fixing alongside manufacturing and delivering all types of memorials and headstones. We are proud to be part of both BRAMM and NAMM so we can provide an installation service to suit almost any kind of setting. We ensure all pieces are properly positioned and securely fitted so they will stand the test of time and withstand the pressures put on them by the elements.

We provide free fixing with many of our memorial products and can cover the majority of England. For other parts of the UK we request you contact us to discuss the cemetery and accessibility in advance. This will help us get a better idea of whether we can serve you. Please note that the fixing requirements differ depending on the type of memorial you choose and the setting. The standards for larger memorials such as kerb sets are stricter. Mausoleums and vaults are likely to require permanent foundations.

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Ledger memorials are certainly one of the most beautiful and impressive styles of memorial available. Our ledgers are constructed out of the finest quality granite, and can be used as a protective covering for a person’s final resting place. Our customers can be completely assured that all our memorials are made to the highest possible quality, made by hand by our expert masons, using the finest materials available. From our adults’ and children’s headstones to our plaques and urns, everything is made with the utmost attention to detail.

Our ledgers are crafted out of hardy and beautiful granite. Not only is granite beautiful, it also lends an amazing aesthetic quality, and is available in colours such as mid grey, cats eye brown and rustic ruby red. With their relatively large size, these memorials can be engraved with an epitaph and any design of your choosing, from poetic inscriptions to information about the life of the deceased person to images. Ledgers are a great option if you want to create a memorial that is visually stunning and represents the deceased beautifully.

In order to bring our customers the very best, we personally design, cut and craft every ledger memorial ourselves. We work extensively with our customers to create a design that is fitting and suitable for the deceased. We understand that finances are a concern for many people when it comes to creating memorials, which is why we offer all our products for a competitive cost with a number of extras. These include free UK cemetery fixing and the first hundred letters of the inscription done for free. We will also work with you, for free, to design the memorial itself. You can always be certain that we will work diligently to create a memorial that you will love and that will represent the deceased in the right way.

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Headstones memorialise our loved ones, so they should not only mirror the preferences and tastes of the deceased, but also reflect the way they lived their life. The process of headstone selection can appear a little overwhelming, which is why we provide a fully supportive service along with our extensive range of products. We are experienced in our field and we will ensure you make the right decision.

The upright headstone is the most traditional design. They are fixed to the ground with a concrete base, and can be found in cemeteries the world over. Flat headstones can be flush with the ground or raised to the slant from the rear, and as with traditional headstones, they are available in a vast range of sizes, colours and finishes.

Kerb sets are full length headstones that lie completely flat at ground level. They are a minimum of 4 inches thick and provide a greater amount of space for personal inscription and expression. Ledger markers are often combined with slant and beval markers in addition to traditional upright headstones.

Cremation memorials bear similarities to upright headstones but they feature hollowed containers for cremated remains. Memorial benches are often used as an alternative to headstones. They do not require a concrete base and are often placed in memorial gardens. They provide loved ones with tangible tribute and a place to visit and feel close to the deceased.

Each of our products is constructed from marble and granite and offers strength and durability. We provide a high standard of products at affordable prices, from memorial plaques to benches to traditional monuments. We offer discount products and each memorial we supply is constructed by skilled craftsmen. Our talented design consultants can inscribe your memorial with the personalised messages and verses of your choosing, and they will advise you fully regarding design and graphics options. If you are unsure about which style of memorial to go for, just get in touch and we will advise you.

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Last year, a grieving family were asked to alter or remove a headstone in the churchyard at St Mary’s Church, Bamber Bridge, as the parish priest deemed the inscription to be inappropriate. The offending inscription featured the names of his family, ending with the words ‘Sleep tight, Dad’ adorned with an ‘x’. Colloquially, an ‘x’ symbolises a kiss, but in the priest’s opinion this was unacceptable on a headstone inscription. Stories such as this raise the question of what is and what isn’t appropriate to place on a headstone inscription.

It’s best to always check with the cemetery before you commit to any inscriptions as in a lot of cases, they cannot be returned once they have been personalised. It is advisable to consult the authorities at the church or cemetery and ask them whether your idea for the inscription is suitable, or simply walk around and look at examples from other headstones in the cemetery. Generally speaking, most inscriptions will be accepted, but it is important to be sure to avoid distress and unnecessary expense.

At UK Memorial Service we have a selection of beautiful memorials that can be inscribed by our team of talented specialists. We hold an unmatched level of experience and knowledge, meaning that we’re one of the best choices for kerb sets, headstones and all other types of monument. Our team work closely with our customers to make sure that inscriptions are completely perfect and double check them to ensure that they’re accurate. We can also check cemetery rules for you to make sure that all inscriptions will be accepted.

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The experience of losing a child is one that can never truly be explained, but many people find that it is a comfort to create a fitting memorial to them. We create bespoke children’s headstones, memorials, kerb sets and other commemorative items, crafted to your specifications and inscribed with any text or graphics you choose. When you are in need of a memorial, our masons will do all that they can to create one that is fitting and suitable for your wishes.

Every headstone and kerb set that we craft is made with the utmost care and attention. We understand how hard it can be to select a memorial during a time of bereavement, and work hard to create the best possible memorial for each client. Our goal is to provide you with good value for money so that you don’t have to worry about breaking the bank to memorialise the person you loved. Our headstones are available in a variety of designs that can be inscribed with any text or additional designs. Our kerb sets are distinctive, elegant but striking, and come in a range of designs specifically for children’s memorials. As with our headstones, they can be inscribed with your choice of inscription, using your choice of text, font and finish.

In your time of morning, you want to receive the best possible service without compromise. All of our children’s headstones and memorials are available for a competitive cost, made to your specifications. Whatever engraving or text you want etched into the memorial, you can be assured of beautiful results. We offer the first hundred letters of an inscription for free, alongside free UK cemetery fixing. We offer a free layout service as well, working with you extensively in order to create the exact memorial you want.

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Memorials provide a lasting reminder of lives that enriched those of others. As well as commemorating the lives of people, many of us also choose to memorialise our animal friends with memorial plaques, headstones and other monuments. Here we look at ten of the best memorials from around the world dedicated to animals.

1) On the island of Guam there is a special memorial for the Devil Dogs, 25 marine dogs trained specifically for jungle warfare in World War II. The memorial is topped with a carving of a dog and stands as a long time reminder of the sacrifice they made and lives they saved.

2) In Australia a family wanted to do something extra special to commemorate their dog Phoebe, so they placed a bucket of tennis balls on the beach for other dog lovers to use. A sign was included with a picture of Phoebe and a personal message.

3) In Riverside, California you’ll find the West Coast War Dog Memorial. The piece commemorates the dogs and soldiers they served in the war. The base is decorated with markers for individual dogs, each one featuring a single paw print.

4) In Jersey City, New Jersey, there is a special memorial to commemorate the working dogs that helped to search for survivors after the events of 9/11.

5) Franklin D. Roosevelt is regarded as one of the most popular Presidents the US has known. He played a pivotal part in establishing the US on the global stage and also redefined the role of the government in the country. His memorial in Washington shows him alongside his equally famous pet, Fala.

6) The Animals in War memorial in London is a dedication to the animals that fought in wars during the 20th Century alongside Commonwealth and Allied forces. It sits at Brook Gate on the very edge of Hyde Park. The memorial was specially crafted and is one of the most visually stunning animal memorials in the world.

7) In 1995 a cow named Emily escaped from a slaughterhouse in Massachusetts and successfully evaded capture for 40 days before being purchased by a local family. Emily would live out the rest of her days at the Peace Abbey and go on to be a figurehead for animal rights. Her grave is marked with a life sized statue.

8) Alongside the Green Renaissance Highway in Cape Town, South Africa there is a memorial carved to commemorate the 312 rhinos that have been lost to poachers in the area. Stencils were used to carve images of rhinos and a cross to depict each one that was lost.

9) In Cleveland, Ohio there is a statue to honour Smoky, a tiny 4lb Yorkshire Terrier who was a sensation in World War II. Smoky was a therapy dog and also helped to string communication cables in the Philippines, saving countless planes and soldiers in the process.

10) From 1991 to 2004 the Capitol building in Sacramento was graced by a very special visitor. Senator Capitol Kitty was a local stray that lived in the park around the building. She was beloved by staff and visitors alike. Former First Lady Sharon Davis even wrote a fictional book for children about her adventures. A permanent plaque sits outside the building now, marking her favourite spot.

Pet memorials are fitting tributes for animals that have touched the lives of the people they have met and even saved. These examples demonstrate how many different ways there are to remember a beloved animal. If you’re looking to commemorate the life of a faithful companion UK Memorial Service offers a wide selection of high quality bespoke memorials for you to choose from. Each of them can be personalised in any number of ways, including a carving of your favourite image.

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From traditional headstones to inscribed plaques, there is a huge array of memorials that a person can take into consideration when it comes to memorialising a loved one. For those looking for something a little different, a kerb set is definitely something to keep in mind. These fantastic memorials encompass the entire circumference of a grave, making a memorial that can certainly withstand the test of time. We take great pride in our work and when you come to us for kerb sets, you can be assured that all work is done to nothing less than the highest possible quality.

Kerb sets are magnificent memorials, consisting of a kerb that surrounds the overall grave site, and often topped with a headstone that stands strong and resolute over the grave. A slab can also be used to cover the grave. As an alternative, many people choose coloured chippings to add a finishing decorative touch. Kerb sets may vary in terms of decoration: headstones may come in a number of unique designs, they may display statues, memorial plaques or grave ornaments, and flower holders may also be included. They certainly look impressive in any setting, and they are more than capable of withstanding inclement weather.

Our kerb sets are constructed out of either granite or marble. Marble looks fantastic and can easily withstand even the worst weather conditions that are thrown at it. Our granite memorials are available in a variety of colours and styles for unique aesthetic dimensions. Both materials are extremely strong and durable, and are hand-carved by our team of memorial masons. Engraving can also be provided, with the first hundred letters for free. We can even engrave images and graphics onto a kerb set or headstone if you wish.

Whatever you require for your kerb set, we can provide it for you, and you can be completely assured that every kerb set that comes from our company is constructed to the highest possible standards. Our skilled and qualified memorial masons are more than capable of creating the best possible memorial to your exact specifications. When you wish to memorialise a loved one, our accredited memorial masons will be there for you, offering only the highest quality kerb sets and other memorials that money can buy.

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Health and safety is a major concern when it comes to installing adult’s and children’s headstones and memorials in cemeteries and other settings around the UK. Professional, high quality installation is required to prolong the service life of headstones and gravestones and make sure they don’t fall over, potentially causing injury. The National Association of Memorial Masons (NAMM) has created regulations which must be adhered to when a gravestone is being installed.

There are two main methods of fixing headstones: dowel and monolith fixing. The monolith method involves part of the headstone being buried into the ground and then set within a pre-cast concrete shoe. On the other hand, dowel fixing is a process where the gravestone is made with stainless steel dowels which are fixed onto a concrete base as a ground anchor.

When it comes to installation, you want to know that you are using the services of an experienced and knowledgeable team. We have a team of highly skilled installers that will be able to make sure that the gravestone is completely safe and secure, providing many years of service life. Our aim is to ensure that all adult’s and children’s headstones are beautifully designed and safely and securely fixed. That is why we offer our cemetery fixing for free, not including the cemetery fee. As one of the UK’s finest and most versatile suppliers of memorial products, we are able to fulfil all requests.

With the country’s largest collection of headstones, monuments and memorials, and the ability to create bespoke designs for your specific needs, we will be with you every step of the way during the design and manufacturing process, ensuring that you make the right choices. We adhere to strict rules and regulations and are dedicated to offering an affordable solution. Rest assured that your loved one’s headstone or monument will stand strong for many years to come.

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There are many things to think about when it comes to choosing a memorial, particularly the location where you want to leave the commemorative piece. Headstones, plaques and other traditional memorials will always be popular but people are increasingly looking for something a little bit different.

One option that continues to grow in popularity is planting a tree, whether it is part of a green burial or a stand-alone service. This is a great idea because it means people can continue to feel close to their loved ones whilst they care for the trees. Each tree will grow and provide a long term legacy.

There are also environmental advantages to planting a tree. If you want the memorial you choose to improve the environment for coming generations, this is a brilliant option. The trees also attract wildlife so they make particularly fitting tributes for animal lovers. You can plant a tree at home in the garden, at one of the memorial forests across the UK and in some cases you may be able to plant one in a public park.

Trees which are native to the UK will stand the best chance of growing healthily and lasting the test of time. Species like ash, beech and certain types of oak are good choices. If you choose a non-native tree you’ll need to think about the climate and the impact on the environment.

As well as the tree itself you may want to choose a personalised plaque or stone to sit alongside it. This is an excellent way to dedicate the tree and also means you can include a personal message to or about your loved one. Memorial plaques, stones and even miniature headstones can all come in many different shapes and sizes so you can choose the exact one you want.

The growing popularity of green funerals is leading more and more people to choose planting trees to commemorate loved ones. In some cases ashes are even scattered around the tree so they can help it to grow. When you think about memorials it is always best to keep your loved one in mind and select the option that best personifies them. If you want traditional pieces or a smaller memorial to go alongside the tree you plant, you can find a fantastic selection at UK Memorial Service. We can offer personalised memorial plaques, stones and more to put a personal touch on the tree.

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The average cost of a funeral continues to rise with passing years. In 2014, the average cost of a funeral was 87% higher than it was in 2004. At UK Memorial Service, we are aware of the rising costs and do all that we can to offer memorials for a competitive cost. We know that when you experience the loss of a friend or family member, the last thing you want to be doing is worrying about money. That’s why we do all we can to keep our costs as low as possible and ensure that you don’t have to spend a fortune for a memorial on top of the cost of the funeral.

As the costs of burials increases, many families are opting for cremation instead. This is often a more cost effective option, and is also the preferable choice for many people. Cremation allows you to fulfil the wishes of the departed, either by scattering their ashes, keeping them in an urn or vase, or burying it in a requested area, perhaps combined with headstones and kerb sets to mark the person’s resting place. We supply some of the most graceful and fitting tributes, allowing our customers to pay tribute to their loved ones.

From kerb sets to cremation memorials, we have a vast range of memorials designed to offer our customers a cost effective memorial that they can depend on. Made to the highest quality, they will save you money and endure for many years, providing a truly timeless memorial to the person you loved. Our experienced team provide guidance for all clients to ensure that no detail is missed out, and our trained masons are happy to accommodate all design requests. We’re accredited with the British Register of Accredited Memorial Masons for your peace of mind and to certify that we only offer the best products available on the market. You can rest assured that we will continue to do all that we can to provide our hand-made memorials for a competitive cost.

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Cremation is the most popular form of funeral in the UK. The latest figures indicate that close to 75% of all Britons choose to be cremated rather than buried, either for religious reasons or from simple personal choice. The popularity of cremation has led to the increased need for cremation memorials that are beautiful but cost effective. Whereas one of the most common memorials used for burials is the headstone, one of the most common memorials used for the storing of ashes is the cremation urn. We provide a wide array of adults’ and children’s headstones, urns and other cremation memorials for you to choose from, allowing you to pay tribute in your own way.

Funerary urns have seen widespread use across the world, with archaeological evidence pointing to ancient China as being the point of origin. Urns containing ashes were found in Jiahu in China, dating back as early as 7000 BC. Urns can be found at various points throughout history. In Ancient Rome, those belonging to prestigious bloodlines were often cremated and placed into urns which were stored in family columbaria.

In modern society, we still use urns as a means of storing the ashes of our loved ones. In modern times, there are many ways to deal with ashes, from turning the remains into a precious stone to launching them into space. However, traditional urns remain very popular as a way of storing ashes either permanently or temporarily until they can be scattered.

We take great pride in creating beautiful urns, adults’ and children’s headstones, and many more memorials for cremations and burials. Our skilled masons will craft your urn to the highest possible quality and ensure that you receive the design that you want. We personally craft every memorial by hand, ensuring superior quality on every monument and memorial we produce.

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When a pet dies, you’re losing a central member of the family. The memories that we create with them can be some of the happiest we have. As such, when we lose a pet, we memorialise them as much as we would any other member of our family. In order to allow you to do so, we have a number of pet memorials available for you to choose from. This allows you to permanently preserve the memory of your pet in a simple but effective way.

Losing a pet is an emotional experience. We understand that it is many people’s first priority to install a memorial in dedication to them. These memorials don’t have to be grand or complicated; simple memorials can be just as effective and beautiful. Memorial plaques, inscribed stones and small headstones make a great way to pay tribute.

We have numerous types and styles of memorial available for you to purchase. Our memorial plaques make cost effective but elegant memorials for your pet. Our black granite plaques can be supplied with ground spikes so that they can be placed in the ground, or they can be supplied with tree or wall mounts so that they can be hung. They can also be supplied with stainless steel stands so that they can displayed within your home. For something significantly more substantial, we have sloping slab, boulder and headstone memorials available, making beautiful markers for your pet’s resting place. Our pet memorials can be personalised with your own words, or even a photograph of the pet; simply send it to us and we will engrave it onto the memorial for you.

With our range of memorials available for low prices, you don’t have to worry about breaking the bank simply to memorialise your beloved family pet. With our bespoke services, you can have the memorial that you want, exactly as you want it. We take pride in the work that we do and you can be assured that our memorials will remain as a reminder to the memory of your pet for a long time to come.

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When it comes to memorials such as ledgers, kerb sets and gravestones, personalisation is key to creating a unique and effective tribute. Many people choose memorials which reflect the passions, personality and behaviour of the deceased and our broad selection of memorials provide a way to say everything you need to. As we are equipped with some of the country’s most talented designers and stone masons, we can assure you that every single item we produce will be created with care and attention to detail. Our product range includes vases, kerb sets, headstones, plaques and much more, and we can satisfy all requests with one of the UK’s largest collections of memorials.  

We are committed to providing a service that is not only extremely affordable but of the highest quality too, as we believe quality and choice shouldn’t have to come with a large price tag. Our time is focused on delivering suitable memorial products without having to place financial stress on families in their already difficult time. Whether you would like to design a bespoke memorial to suit your individual needs or simply want to order one of our existing designs with personalised inscriptions, we can deliver. We understand that your words and images will reflect your feelings towards your loved one and aim to produce products that match your every requirement.

All of our kerb sets and other products are examined to ensure that the design and inscription is perfect and will match your requests. As a company that takes pride in everything we do, you can always be guaranteed that we will respond to any queries in a prompt and efficient manner, allowing you to secure the finest memorials for your loved ones. Our skilled team are on hand to take your requests and make sure that you are catered to in every way possible. Contact us today for further information and we will be pleased to assist you. Our delivery service covers the majority of mainland UK so no matter where you are, you’ll be able to benefit from our expertise and huge product range.

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Today, cremation is the most popular type of funeral. However, it is only relatively recently, just over a century ago, that cremation came back into favour. The revival of cremation can be attributed to several figures, including the eccentric and magnanimous Dr. William Price.

Before Christianity, cremation was practised widely, even early in human history, and often existed alongside the practice of burials. It was preferred by the Ancient Romans and Greeks. However, the Christianisation of the Western world would halt cremation, due to the Christian belief of physical resurrection of the body and the links cremation had with Paganism. As such, the practice died out for several hundred years until the Victorian era. The practice was championed by Sir Henry Thompson, physician to the Queen, as it was thought to be safer and healthier for the public than burials. The Cremation Society was founded in 1874, and they constructed a crematorium next to Brookwood Cemetery in 1879. However, they would not be allowed to use it until 1885, following a groundbreaking legal case in 1884 helmed by Dr. William Price.

Born in Wales, Dr. Price took part in the Newport Rising in favour of the Chartists’ ideas, though he would flee to France following its failure. Returning to Wales years later, he would become one of the most prominent figures in the Neo-Druidic movement, attempting to revive ancient Druidic religion and practices. Price was constantly at odds with Christianity and the English, championing Welsh nationalism and his belief in the only true god being nature. His conflicts would come to a head in 1884. Following the death of his son, Iesu, Price attempted to cremate his son on a hill near Llantrisant.

However, this resulted in his arrest and trial for practising cremation rather than burial. Price argued that while nothing said cremation was legal, nothing said that it was illegal either. Upon agreement of the judge, Price was released. With this legal precedent, the first official cremation was performed in 1885 with the cremation of the poet Janet Pickersgill. Price himself died in 1892 and was cremated in front of a crowd of 20,000, as per his wishes, in his uncle’s old chair atop a cord of wood and two tons of coal.

In 1902, the Cremation Act fully legalised cremation. Since the legalisation of cremation, it has become the preferred type of funeral in the UK and in many parts of the world. It is now much more popular than burial, and the religious stigma attached to it has all but dissipated in these modern times. Cremation memorials are growing in popularity and variety, and the practice of burial is slowly falling in popularity, particularly with the lack of burial space. With new methods coming into action for cremation, this method will likely continue to grow in popularity. If you have selected cremation for your own or a loved one’s funeral, we can offer you a selection of quality cremation memorials to help you pay a special tribute to them.

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The words people select for memorials are always deeply personal. It is important to express our emotions when we have suffered a bereavement; the process is different for everyone, and the words we select for inscription on headstones and memorials are the ideal way of paying tribute to our dear departed. For many of us, verse allows us to express our grief in a tangible way.

We are the UK’s largest supplier of memorial plaques and other memorial products, and included in our selection is a vast selection of verses. Every passing leaves loved ones and family members with decisions to make regarding burial, ceremony and headstones. If you are arranging funerals without knowing the express wishes of the deceased, the process can be even more challenging. We offer a helpful service that ensures you will have all the assistance you need as you make your choices.

Many people know how they feel and the sentiment they want to convey, but find it difficult to articulate those feelings in words. Grief affects us both emotionally and physically, and it can be a huge effort to carry out the most simple of tasks when we are fragile. If you feel you cannot find the right words to inscribe on your chosen headstone or memorial product we will provide you with patient and sensitive assistance. We have vast experience in every aspect of memorial design and construction, and we can help you with beneficial guidance and suggestions.

Many people find inspiration from poetry, literature and music. Lyrics and narrative can eloquently speak for us when we are grieving. The words of others who have experienced the same pain can effectively and beautifully convey our emotions. If you feel you need assistance with verse selection, we offer a range of traditional and powerful verses to encapsulate every emotion and capture the gravitas of your loss. Our collection offers vast choice and is sure to hold the words that will perfectly honour and commemorate your loved one.

We are fully aware of the importance of selecting the right words, and we assure our customers we are here to help. Our team is experienced, skilled and knowledgeable and we provide a compassionate and helpful service at all times. We supply a full range of products including headstones, cremation memorials, memorial plaques and many more, allowing you to pay tribute in a way that suits your needs.

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Funerals offer us numerous benefits when we are bereaved. They allow us to officially say goodbye and begin to accept the future without the person we have lost. They also enable us to take comfort from the knowledge that we gave someone the send off they deserved. It is difficult to take comfort from anything when we are grieving, but in time when pain begins to lessen, it can be a big help knowing that we paid the right kind of personal tribute to the deceased.

Choosing the right memorials can be intimidating. It may be that someone has passed unexpectedly and no specific instructions have been left. If this is the case, it can leave loved ones with a huge responsibility. We assure our customers that we help with every aspect of the decision making process and we offer unfaltering support.

We carry a large selection of memorial products including headstones, grave markers, ledgers, kerb sets, memorial vases, urns, plaques and more. Our products are made from durable materials including granite and stone and offer long lasting resistance to the external elements. We have grown into the UK’s largest supplier of memorial products and we strive to serve the diverse needs of all communities.

We are fully equipped to meet all requests and satisfy many specifications. Every person is unique, and the memorials we select should respect and reflect their individuality. Our selection offers a wide choice of memorials that are suitable for indoor and outdoor locations and are sure to provide the perfect commemoration.

Our memorials and headstones are constructed with care by dedicated professionals. We can adapt our memorials and designs to suit the needs of our customers and deliver high specification, custom made products or you can select from our extensive range of monuments, kerb sets, memorials and headstones. Funerals can of course be expensive, and we aim to offer savings to our valued customers. Our process involves no middlemen, and by purchasing your memorials directly from us you are sure to receive real value for money. We have been supplying our services on a nationwide basis for many years and we are able to offer first class products, quality carvings and inscriptions and a friendly and reliable service.

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Over the last decade, the demand for mausoleums has risen substantially. An increasing number of people are moving away from the idea of traditional below ground burials and opting for internal interment in beautifully designed mausoleums. When it comes to making decisions concerning our deceased loved ones, we all have our own ideas, and it is important that we make the choices we are comfortable with. Choosing a mausoleum for a final resting place combines all the burial options into one and offers a comprehensive solution. Many people opt for a mausoleum interment as it incorporates a graveside service, a memorial monument and the entombing of their loved one. For anyone that wishes for a grave that sits above ground, a mausoleum offers the perfect solution.

Many people find the idea of laying a body to rest in the earth unappealing. Mausoleum interment offer great comfort to people, as they are able to feel close to the physical presence of the deceased and remember them the way they were in life. External grave plots require regular care to maintain the area, but a mausoleum burial demands little to no maintenance. Mausoleums and vaults are built to provide long lasting eternal tribute and they offer immense strength and durability. They provide the bereaved with a private and intimate place to share time with the deceased without intrusion. Furthermore, you are able to visit with your loved ones for as long as you wish in a warm and sheltered space.

Alongside our range of adults’ and children’s headstones, we offer a vast collection of mausoleum products constructed from solid granite. Our selection of current designs meets a wide range of needs, but we are also happy to create a bespoke design to suit your precise specifications. We can readily adapt our current selection to accommodate up to 12 caskets of large size. Our team of talented designers can design the interior of walk in family mausoleum spaces to provide comfortable and relaxing surroundings. Whatever your style and design ideas, our creative professionals can create the perfect space with exquisite and elegant designs. Our freestanding mausoleums can also be altered to suit your preferences. We take every step to ensure your every need is met by our products.

We carry the largest collection in the UK and offer high quality at affordable prices, providing discount products that deliver the long term commemoration you need and save you money at the same time. Contact us for advice concerning our full range of adults’ and children’s headstones and other memorials and our friendly team will assist you with a patient and understanding service.

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We understand that choosing a memorial for your loved one is an extremely personal matter, which is why we respectively offer our guidance and advice throughout the whole process. We are proud to deliver some of the finest products on the market, all created through a mixture of advanced equipment and traditional knowledge and skills.

One of the main things to consider when choosing a memorial is the fact that different churchyards and cemeteries have different rules and regulations regarding the type of memorial that they allow. This can depend on the finish, style, shape, and material of the memorial, amongst many other factors. Fortunately, we are here to help you with any questions that you may have regarding the specific regulations that your chosen area might have in place, and provide products to suit the requirements.

All of our products can be made according to your personal requirements and preferences. Whether you would like an inscription carved in a certain way or an individual design, our specialist team are able to help you. We are happy to go above and beyond the expectations of our customers to make sure that they are completely satisfied with what we provide. We’re proud of the reputation we have in our sector and do everything we can to uphold it. We can help you create a lasting memorial for a loved one that will provide a beautiful tribute.

We are known for offering a huge range of choice to our clients, providing products including kerb sets, ledgers, plaques, headstones, gravestones, pet memorials, mausoleums, vaults and memorial plaques. As trusted memorial masons and members of the British Register of Accredited Memorial Masons, you can rely on us for top quality products which will be expertly installed.

Since 1979 we have been a significant manufacturer and supplier of memorials in the UK and have an unmatched level of experience which our clients can benefit from. If you would like to know more about our products, contact our team today.

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Natural burials have increased in popularity in recent years as environmental concern has become more prevalent. More people are opting for the natural burial as a result of the advantages it offers. A natural burial ground provides you with a permanent resting place that is sure to remain undisturbed, ensuring eternal tribute in a peaceful location.

The UK now has many official natural burial grounds that meet the highest environmental and professional standards. The 270 plus sites are varied and offer something for every individual. Some of the sites are large commercial enterprises, some are non-profit based charities and some are areas next to existing cemeteries.

The environmental benefits of woodland burials speak for themselves. Many of the organisations that manage the sites are committed to making sure they turn into natural habitats and sanctuaries for wildlife. Many natural burials are marked by the planting of a tree, which makes a contribution to the preservation and balance of nature.

Many natural burial sites remain open at all times, unlike traditional cemeteries. The unrestricted access they provide makes it easy for friends and family to visit whenever they want. The UK is experiencing a national shortage of space in cemeteries, but a natural burial site eliminates this problem entirely. Finally, a natural burial site offers the perfect resting place for anybody with a desire to protect the planet for future generations and a great love of nature and the outdoors.

If you opt for the scattering of ashes at a woodland burial it offers you several choices. Many people scatter some of the ashes and retain the rest to keep at home. This helps people feel close to the deceased and provides a physical form of commemoration. We provide a selection of urns for ashes including biodegradable products. You are also free to place or erect a memorial at an alternative location from the burial site. You can opt for memorial plaques at a place of sentimental importance or significance such as a beloved haunt or place of employment.

We offer a range of memorial plaques that are constructed from high quality materials. You can select from bronze and granite plaques or our sandstone memorials that are perfect for placement in the garden. Regardless of the manner of burial or interment, we can supply the perfect memorial tribute.

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It can be challenging to decide on a suitable inscription for a headstone. This can be complicated further still by the policies of the specific church or graveyard. There are no clear rules for Catholic, Church of England or municipal burial grounds; instead, there are loose guidelines and specific restrictions depending on the particular site. This can create problems and has even resulted in a small number of cases where people have been asked to change inscriptions.

Catholic churches have no central policy on what can and can’t be inscribed on a headstone. Each particular site will have their discretion, and you should always ask what is and isn’t allowed before you choose an inscription. There are only a small number of Catholic burial sites in the UK and cases where people are asked to change inscriptions are very rare.

The Church of England has 42 dioceses, each of which has their own specific churchyard regulations. Some of these have clear guidelines on inscriptions or headstones whereas others are a little more flexible. The majority allow personalisation in terms of including pet names or nicknames, but ask that they be put in inverted commas. The Diocese of Oxford specifically asks that inscriptions be “simple, reverent and theologically acceptable”. Some put limitations on the graphics you can have and inscriptions they deem to be appropriate.

Municipal burial grounds have outline guidance covering informal memorialisation but not inscriptions. Non-Church of England burial grounds have slightly more freedom but still need to follow guidelines in terms of what is appropriate. In all cases hate speech should be avoided.

The rules for headstone and gravestone inscriptions remain blurred, and what you are allowed will depend on the specific site. Before setting on an inscription for your memorial or headstone, it is always advisable to find out what the specific rules are at your chosen churchyard or cemetery. This will help you to come up with the right inscriptions and avoid having to change them if they are deemed unacceptable.

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Adults’ and children’s headstones, gravestones and memorials come in many different shapes and sizes, from the smallest plaques to large scale mausoleums. There is a great deal of choice so you can select something that is personal and meaningful. Here is a selection of different styles for you to keep in mind.

Upright headstones

The most common type of grave marker you will see features a taller stone that stands on a stable, flat base. They come in various heights, thicknesses and shapes as well as being made from a range of different materials. The flat front of the stone is typically engraved with a personal message.

Flat or flush plaques

These sit level on the ground rather than standing upright, and are generally made from a single piece of stone rather than the usual two. They come in a range of sizes, from small plaques to large ledger memorials that cover the majority if not all of the grave. There are many different shapes to choose from, including standard tablets or special designs.

Slant memorial

Similar to upright memorials, these have a flat base and a wedge shaped top section with slanting front. They typically have an angle of around 45 degrees but this can differ depending on the height of the stone. Slanted headstones are commonly used on family plots to identify where individual people are buried. They are also used when full sized memorials are not appropriate.

Bevel marker

These are a combination of flat and slant memorials. They are generally rectangular but are slightly taller at the back to create a gently sloping surface. When positioned they may look like they sit flat to the ground but they are actually slightly raised and angled.

Obelisk

Obelisks have been used as grave markers for thousands of years, originating from ancient Egypt. They sit on square bases and tower like columns, tapering off to a pointed or carved top. Some also feature statues and great decorations on the sides. They come in various heights and different styles.

Mausoleums

These are the largest grave markers (in terms of overall size rather than height). They are free standing buildings that enclose a whole tomb, sometimes used for family burials or to commemorate a single, influential person. Some Christian mausoleums even include a chapel.

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Flowers are a popular tribute which can be seen in cemeteries and at memorials all over the world. Certain types of flowers are more common than others, and some provide a striking, poignant message when left beside a grave or a memorial. We can provide you with a huge range of memorials, from headstones and kerb sets to plaques, and can also provide memorial vases so that you can leave your own offerings to the deceased.

Flowers have been used for funerals and memorials for tens of thousands of years, with the first indication of funeral flowers being discovered in the Shandiar Cave in Iraq. The flower arrangements there date back to at least 62,000 B.C, highlighting just how long the human race has been enhancing memorials and funerals with the arrangement of flowers. It isn’t until the past few centuries that we have begun to assign specific meanings to certain flowers, leading to the choosing of specific types of flowers for memorial purposes.

There are a variety of different flower types that are suitable for funerals and memorials. Amongst the most common flower is the lily, which represents innocence. The lily has special significance to people with Christian faith as the Virgin Mary’s tomb was said to have been covered with this flower. These flowers essentially mark the soul’s return to innocence and have quite a distinctive, strong smell. A similar flower is the peace lily, symbolising innocence and rebirth. Their Latin name means “peace and prosperity” and symbolise the soul finally coming to rest after an adventurous life.

Orchids are another popular option. They represent eternal love, essentially letting the deceased know that they will never be forgotten and will be loved for as long as somebody carries their memory. They are often given to or by close relatives of the deceased as a means of expressing sympathy. Carnations and chrysanthemums are also widely used. Carnations are long lasting and beautiful flowers available in a variety of colours, with pink carnations proving popular in a memorial context. The meaning of chrysanthemums differs depending on the country, though throughout Europe, China and Japan they are often associated with mourning.

There are a huge range of other flowers that can accompany memorials, all of which have their own distinct style and meaning. By making an offering, you are contributing to a tradition that is tens of thousands of years old, as well as ensuring that the memory of the deceased is valued. Whatever flowers you offer, you can be assured that our memorial vases will provide you with ample space to place them.

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Bereavement is a time of emotional turmoil, and the selection of memorials for those that have passed can feel like extra pressure. We are here to help our customers choose the appropriate memorials that will offer the perfect long lasting tribute. We have vast experience in our field, and we do our utmost to aid your selection and ensure a smooth and simple process.

We know that the gravestone you choose needs to complement and reflect the character of the deceased. There are all manner of headstones and gravestones available, and we carry the most extensive collection in the UK. We offer low prices, high quality and a helpful service. Our adults’ and children’s headstones are constructed from durable materials such as granite and marble and they provide unlimited strength and resistance to all manner of weather conditions.

We can offer you everything from flat tablets and upright headstones to desk tablets and ledger slabs, ensuring that every product is manufactured with care and meticulous attention to detail. We are dedicated to delivering the headstones and grave markers that provide the perfect tribute to your loved ones. There are several finishes available for your memorials such as polished, honed and pitched. Honed surfaces are smooth and non-reflective, whereas a pitched surface has a rustic and unique appeal that helps headstones blend seamlessly into older cemeteries and surroundings.

When it comes to choosing a design for your memorial, our specialist team of artists will help you. Every product we offer is bespoke and we can customise it to convey your individual sentiment. An epitaph is important as it identifies the location of the deceased and serves as eternal definition. We will help you with your ideas and make as many suggestions as you need until you are happy with the final design.

The most important thing to remember is that there is no correct way to design a memorial. It is simply a matter of what feels right, and whatever your wishes we will grace your memorial with an exquisite epitaph. You can select from an assortment of fonts, verses and images. You can use photographs and pre-selected emblems and you can create your own poems and passages or select from literary or musical works that were important to your loved one. We are here to help with advice regarding our full range of affordable adults’ and children’s headstones and other products, and we pledge to serve you with empathy and patience.

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Memorial plaques are one of the most popular ways to commemorate the lives of deceased loved ones and people who left a lasting impression on the lives of others. There are many fine examples of them all around the world, in cemeteries, on buildings and in some unexpected spaces.

Plaques can be personalised in several ways, from inscribing the name of the deceased to including a full message or passage. There is a great deal of freedom in terms of what you can have on the memorial but you should always bear in mind where you will be putting it and if the wording is suitable. Some cemeteries will have limitations to ensure you don’t say anything disrespectful.

If you are investing in a public plaque, you should keep in mind what you want people who read it to know about the deceased. In a very short space you need to say what they meant to you and let their personality shine through. You can look for inspiration in several places but a personal message is always the best.

Traditionally the inscriptions on memorial plaques were written entirely in upper case lettering, putting additional constraints on the length of the passage you could include. With modern inscription techniques you can decide on lower case lettering if you wish and have some extra space for the text. Make sure you choose the size of the letters and the font carefully so the message will fit whilst still being able to be read easily.

You can find a wide range of plaques in both marble and brass available to purchase in our online shop. They are available in a selection of different sizes and we also make bespoke plaques and memorial stones too. We do inscriptions in house and take care to make sure they are written accurately and carved professionally. Whatever you wish to say on your plaque, you can be certain we will come up with a beautifully personal and unique result for your loved one’s memorial.

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Gravestone inscriptions are important, as they are one of the main features that personalise headstones and make them unique. You can inscribe almost anything on a memorial or monument, and there is a great opportunity to make it something personal and important to the deceased. Religious passages and prayers are popular, as are poems, short literary pieces and personal phrases. Some cemeteries will have limitations on what you can write to ensure it is appropriate, but you will generally have a great deal of freedom to decide what you want.

The Bible is filled with inspirational quotes that can be inscribed on headstones when marking the passing of a religious loved one. Selecting the right one will depend on the beliefs of the deceased. You should decide whether you want the piece to be filled with hope or joy, or bring peace to the people that visit. Remember to keep the size of the headstones in mind as this will limit how long the inscription can be.

Popular religious passages to inscribe on memorials and gravestones include the following;

“The Righteous shall go into life eternal” – Matthew 25:46

“Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God” – Matthew 5:8

“Whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have eternal life” – John 3:15

“The Lord watch between me and thee, while we are absent, one from the other” – Genesis 31:49

“I thank my God upon every remembrance of you” – Philippians 1:3

There are many, many more phrases than these to choose from including passages specifically for men, women and children. There are also quotes suitable for the relationship you have with the deceased. The inscription should be something personal and meaningful. You should never rush the choice and will have to confirm the inscription carefully to ensure everything is spelled correctly when the headstone is made.

We understand the value of getting headstone inscriptions absolutely perfect and will do everything we can to provide the best service for every client. We are passionate about producing the very best memorials available and take the utmost care to give everything single one a beautiful finish.

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When choosing memorials to mark a resting place, you need to consider how you will look after the memorial and the site in the long term. Many people won’t have the chance to visit the cemetery regularly to ensure the grave is clean, free from debris and that the memorial is still positioned properly. The last thing you want though is to arrive on a special date only to find that the grave is covered with leaves and rubbish.

Choosing ledger memorials offers several advantages over other types of grave marker in terms of maintaining them. They cover all or the majority of graves and lay flat to the ground. The size means they have space for large, elaborate carvings and inscriptions. This makes them much easier to personalise because there are less spatial limitations. The size also means you can choose a beautiful piece of stone and get the full benefit of the unique colour and veining.

Maintaining ledgers is easier than other memorials because they are usually flat, meaning there are fewer raised parts to catch rubbish. The fact that they are raised slightly means leaves and debris can gather along the edges but they are unlikely to come to rest on the actual memorial itself, especially when you have a smooth, polished surface. You will need to clean the surface periodically, particularly after snow, to keep it clean and fresh but this is better than having rubbish piling up.

Before you choose ledger memorials make sure you check with the local cemetery to make sure they allow them. Some don’t because of their size so it is always best to check in advance before you start designing.

If you opt for a ledger memorial, we can provide you with the beautiful, personalised memorial you wish for. As with all our memorials, each ledger will be expertly and securely installed by our BRAMM accredited team, and crafted to your specifications to ensure your tribute is absolutely perfect.

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When it comes to choosing a headstone for a loved one, it is important to consider strength and durability. The headstone you select will pay eternal tribute and needs to be able to stand the test of time. Modern headstones are crafted from a wide range of materials, but granite remains the most widely used. Headstones need to be durable and versatile, and granite undoubtedly offers these advantages along with being visually pleasing. It is a naturally beautiful material and allows us to create the most exquisite headstones.

Granite offers many benefits. It will withstand years of rain, snow, hail and heat without difficulty. Its presence will not change, and the weather will not compromise its structural integrity. It is not uncommon for materials constructed from granite to contain flashes of colour. This is a result of the minerals within the stone and only serves to enhance its natural beauty.

We carry the largest selection of granite headstones, memorial plaques and memorial vases in the UK and each one reflects our commitment to delivering the highest quality to our customers. Our products are constructed with meticulous attention to detail and the highest standard of care. Our aim is to deliver first class products at accessible and affordable prices. We supply personalised granite memorials that save you money and offer the perfect commemoration.

We professionally carve and design our products to satisfy your personal wishes. Personalisation is an important part of selecting your memorial, and we know the pressure involved. We offer an understanding and sensitive service to help each of our clients through each stage of the selection process. Our specialist designers will listen to your needs and create the perfect epitaphs. We can convey your particular sentiment and help you express whatever you want to say.

We offer an extensive range of products from headstones, ledgers and kerb sets to memorial vases, memorial plaques, mausoleums and urns. We offer reasonable costs, a patient service and outstanding quality. We have been supplying our services for over 35 years and we have the experience and knowledge to offer the highest standard of customer care.

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First World War memorials in Mevagissey and St Austell, UK, have recently been granted Grade II listed status as part of the English Heritage’s aim to list up to 2,500 war memorials in the next five years. This aim is a result of the recent commemorations marking the centenary of the beginning of the war.

A carved Celtic cross, inscribed with 31 names of men from the town who gave their lives in WWI and 12 from WW2, resides in St George’s Square, Mevagissey. It was built as a memorial in 1920 and still remains in its original location today. The second memorial give Grade II listed status is St Austell’s memorial in Market Street. This holds the names of over 300 men belonging to the parish and includes deaths from both world wars.

The War Memorials Trust is an organisation which aims to protect the UK’s many historic war memorials. They are working in collaboration with English Heritage to encourage applications for memorial list status. They are asking the public to report any monuments they know of which are currently in poor condition so that they can be restored to their deserved glory.

Designation director at English Heritage. Roger Bowdler, has said that the next five years for the organisation will be quite busy as they have to record, research and recommend over 2,500 war memorials, but this is a task that they’re proud to be a part of. The memorials with Grade listing will have a place in the National Heritage List of England and help to tell the story of history. In addition to Mevagissey and St Austell, the Tintagel Cross War Memorial in St Materiana Church is also listed.

We believe that this story illustrates the importance of memorials and how dear many of us hold them. This is why we are dedicated to crafting the most beautiful, timeless and long lasting kerb sets, headstones, ledger memorials and other memorial products, all individually designed and crafted with the utmost care and attention. We can deliver nationwide, and we’re happy to cater to all budgets. You can commemorate your loved ones and ensure that their memory lives on with our help.

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One of the most difficult decisions we will ever have to face is choosing a memorial for a child who has passed away. We understand that during times like these our clients want a service that is sympathetic, personal, efficient and affordable, alleviating their financial worries and giving them the reassurance that their child’s memorial will be truly special.

We have a wide and extensive selection of children’s headstones and memorials for you to select from, but if you do not see a design that is suitable for your preferences, we are also on hand to create completely bespoke designs. You can rest assured that whatever you want, we will do all we can to provide it for you, all at very reasonable prices so you do not have to spend a fortune to pay a loving tribute to your child.

Our range of children’s headstones includes designs such as animals, angels and favourite characters, reflecting the fun and loving spirit of your child. We can incorporate text of your choice in a range of different lettering styles so you can express your sentiments in any way you choose. Each and every headstone is built to last and can be installed securely by our skilled team, ensuring that it will stand proudly for many years to come and provide a legacy for your child that will last.

As well as headstones, we have kerb sets which provide complete protection and decoration for the child’s burial site. The grave site itself can be covered with coloured stone chips, providing a beautiful effect that will also help to defend the grave from damage and changing weather conditions. Our kerb sets are a very popular choice and like the headstones, they can be customised and engraved in almost any way you wish.

Selecting children’s headstones is a difficult and emotional job, but we aim to make the process as easy as possible for you. Please contact us today to discuss your needs or take a look at our full range of headstones, plaques, benches, ledgers and kerb sets.

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Bereavement touches most of our lives at some point and affects us all deeply, regardless of beliefs and cultural differences. We provide a full range of memorial products and a service that we have designed specifically to meet the needs of diverse communities. Loss is loss, and when a person that we care about dies we naturally wish to pay tribute to them.

Memorial plaques have long been used as forms of remembrance. They are perfect for single tributes or as an accompaniment to headstones, ledgers and kerb sets. The memorial you select for the passing of a loved one will forever pay tribute to them and it is important to choose the right one. We offer our clients guidance through the selection stage and do our very best to remove as much of the stress from the process as possible.

Our collection of memorial products offers durability and beauty. Our memorial plaques, vases and other items are constructed from a range of materials including granite and marble and are crafted to withstand all weather conditions. It is our role to meet the requests of our clients, which is why we carry the UK’s largest collection of memorial plaques and other items. Everybody has different preferences and each one is as individual and personal as the next.

Memorial plaques offer a great deal of flexibility as they can be attached to any other item, such as a memorial bench. Some people choose to place commemorative plaques somewhere in the home of the deceased, or they opt for an alternative location such as a favourite public park or place of employment. Whatever location you decide on, the plaque you place there provides you with a space in which you can maintain a connection with your loved one.

Our fully trained and skilled artistic team will make sure your memorial plaques are beautifully designed, crafted and carved. Our memorials are available at affordable prices and our designers deliver exquisite craftsmanship. Our attentive service will ensure you are fully aware of every option available to you and if you are unsure about plaque inscriptions we have a selection of verses to help your decision.  For help and information regarding our memorial plaques and full range of products contact our team.

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The loss of a child is always tragic but remembering the joy they brought is an important part of grieving and recovering. Choosing children’s memorials as a tribute can help with the grieving process, or you could go one step further and create a memorial garden in your own home to keep their memory alive. Gardens are really popular because people can cultivate them with care, watch things grow and spend time in them to feel closer to the deceased.

If you are considering a memorial garden you need to decide where you want to locate it and how much space you have. You could choose to use the whole of your garden or just a special part of it if you wish. With the location you’ll need to ensure the plants can get enough light so they will thrive. You may also want to position it so you can see it from the house when you look out; this way you can enjoy it even when the weather is bad.

With the garden you can decide what you want to plant in it and get the right atmosphere. Some people choose to plant trees because they can watch them grow large and strong. Others prefer flowers so they can enjoy the colours and see them bloom every year. The choice you make should depend on how much time you have to spend looking after what you plant. Gardens can require a great deal of care and attention but the efforts you put in will pay off when you see how well everything grows.

Alongside the flowers, plants or trees you also need to decide what other special items you want to include. There are a wide range of different children’s memorials to choose from including benches if you want to be able to sit in the garden, miniature headstones or inscribed plaques. You can even include statues and other things if you want to add some of the personality of your child into the garden. Water features also look great because they are naturally soothing.

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As a leading supplier of memorial products including headstones, cremation memorials and plaques, we are committed to serving and meeting the diverse needs of communities. We carry the largest collection of memorials in the country, and our aim is to help you select the right ones for you. We know how important it is to pay tribute to and remember your deceased loved ones and we offer affordable, high quality memorials.

We receive many different requests and our goal is to successfully meet every one. People are individuals, and it is important to respect their wishes and their character after they have passed. Our varied range of interior and exterior memorials is based on a varied range of preferences and requirements and our service sensitively caters to every need.

Many people wish to erect memorials in locations separate from the place of burial or interment. Home and garden memorials allow you to set up a place of remembrance somewhere you feel comfortable. Familiarity and privacy can be hugely comforting when we grieve, and by commemorating a lost loved one at home or a location that has significant meaning you can still feel close to the deceased.

Pet memorials are important when a family loses an animal. Gardens around the world play host to lost loved pets and garden memorials offer comfort to children and the family as a whole. Our external memorials are available in many different materials and each one guarantees to withstand unpleasant weather conditions and provide long lasting tribute.

Our memorials are constructed from granite, marble and natural hardwood. Every material offers strength and aesthetic appeal. We also carry a selection of memorial plaques that allow graceful marking of a death. Memorial plaques beautifully enhance any garden or outdoor space and they can be specially designed to suit your specifications.

We can personalise your memorials with the designs of your choosing. If you are unsure of the texts and graphics to opt for we will talk you through the options available and help you make the right choice. You can select from elegant motifs and images and ensure your commemorative items are special. Our affordable home and garden memorials save you money and offer you the perfect tributes for your personal spaces.

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Memorial plaques are an excellent way to commemorate a deceased loved one as they can be placed in a wide range of different places. You can have a plaque to mark the grave, add them to a timber bench in a favourite place, leave one in the crematorium or even keep it at home as a reminder. They are used as tributes for both burials and cremations, making them amongst the most versatile options available.

Plaques can be made from a range of materials. There are metallic ones like brass or bronze as well as stone ones made from the same quality marble and granite used to make large headstones. The material you opt for will depend on where you plan on putting the plaque and the type of finish you want.

One of the most important things to consider when you choose memorial plaques is the inscription you want. The size of the memorial will limit what you can put on it, including the size of the font and the length of the text. There are limitations on the layout but you still have a great amount of freedom with what you put on the piece.

Working closely with the mason is advised when designing the memorial so you can avoid overcrowding and decide on the right design. With larger memorial plaques you can add personal details, an inscription and graphics to make the piece unique. If you go for a smaller one you’ll have to think carefully about what you want to include and say. Whatever type of memorial plaques you wish for, you can be assured our skilled team will provide it for you.

Metal plaques are a good option because you can have the inscription engraved or embossed if you prefer. With stone ones carving is the only option but you can have gold leaf or silver etchings. With both options it is essential to select the right font; large cursive ones take up more space so you need to be careful when going with these.

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In general, grey is considered to be the standard colour of a headstone, reflecting the natural appearance of the stone from which the memorial has been created. The majority of memorials across the UK are of this shade, but you are not limited to this option when selecting a headstone for a loved one. For those seeking a particularly distinct look, our rainbow stone memorials should be given consideration.

The word “rainbow” may suggest that these memorials are highly colourful. Although our marble rainbow stone headstones feature a unique blend of colours, they are subtle and distinguished, and will not look out of place in their intended settings. We have a strong relationship with the authorities responsible for burial sites across the UK, so you can rest assured that we would never offer nor suggest memorials which would not be permitted for placement.

While conforming to the size dimensions and safety requirements of burial sites, our rainbow memorials have a unique appearance which comes through quite naturally. The different colours make a pattern across the marble which is completely individual to each headstone. This is the most significant factor which makes many people choose a rainbow stone memorial as the ideal choice to commemorate the deceased, as the colours perfectly reflect the vibrancy and the uniqueness of their life.

Over the years our commitment to the bereaved has been to craft memorials which present a dignified and heartfelt commemoration of the deceased. We find that for many people the distinctive shades and patterns of rainbow stone headstones reflect the unique qualities of the person they loved, making the material the perfect choice for them. Our compassionate team are available at your convenience to discuss the different styles and forms of memorials we can design and create for you in rainbow stone, from kerb sets to ledgers to headstones.

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Taking care of a burial plot is important if you want to give a loved one a well tended resting place. In many cemeteries, the ground staff will do much of the cleaning work, but you’ll still need to take care of the headstone yourself and might be required to remove any flowers when they wither. It is wise to plan ahead when choosing the memorial for the grave so you know how much maintenance work will be required.

A great option if you want to surround the whole burial plot is to choose kerb sets to go alongside the headstone. The kerbs mark the outer boundaries of the grave and enclose it. The space between can be filled with decorative gravel, be used for planting flowers and small shrubs or you can cover it over with a large stone slab if you wish. Surrounds can be personalised so they match the style of the headstone and you can also add additional inscriptions to them if there are words you can’t fit on to the stone.

If you choose kerbs without a slab to cover the grave you’ll need to keep a closer eye on maintenance. Kerb sets are installed to the same high standards as headstones but there is still the potential for the ground to move and for them to get disturbed. When this happens the whole surround could get damaged if it isn’t repositioned quickly. Kerb sets will also provide a gathering place for leaves and other debris so you’ll need to keep removing them periodically.

Kerbed headstones look amazing when fitted and give you the chance to personalise the whole grave. You can leave the space between kerbs open and covered with turf if you like or opt for something special to differentiate the plot. Planting between the surrounds is popular and gives people an extra reason to continue visiting the cemetery so they can care for the flowers and plants. Alternatively you can create beautiful patterns with various different coloured gravels.

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