A memorial is anything above the level of the ground that is placed on a grave as a tribute to those buried there. Headstones, vases and plaques are the most common memorials. Some people choose more unusual memorials, such as pieces of sculpture.
If you want to place a memorial on a grave
You must hold or purchase memorial rights for that grave. If you do not own the grave rights, the grave owner(s) must sign any memorial application form. If the grave owner has passed away please contact us to discuss whether you can purchase the rights.
Types of memorials
You can speak to a local stonemason or you can give us a ring and we can discuss what is allowed.
We take in consideration whether the memorial is in keeping with the section of the cemetery where the grave is, and whether it might offend other cemetery users. This does not mean that you are limited to traditional designs. We are keen to encourage unusual and individual memorials, which add to the character and interest of the cemetery.
Kerbs around graves are only permitted on some sections in some cemeteries with the permission of the Bereavement Services Manager.
All memorials need to be fixed by a monumental mason registered with us. This makes sure they are qualified and insured to be working within the cemeteries and that they keep to our regulations and to industry best practice.
We would strongly advise you to contact us regarding any temporary or free standing objects you may be thinking of placing on a grave before you purchase or place anything on any grave.
Approved masons
These include:
- Able Memorials, Kendal and Penrith
- Beattie Memorials, Carlisle
- Clive Hasley, Whitehaven
- Cumbria Granite and Slate, Cumbria Granite and Slate
- Cumbria Memorials, Carlisle
- Co-op, Workington, Maryport
- Denton Memorials, Carlisle
- Parkin and Jackson, Kendal
- Sonya Poland, Maryport
- Stalker Memorials, Whitehaven
- T. Edgar, Workington
- Walker Bros, Workington
These masons are accredited businesses and qualified, registered Monumental Masons who have been trained through the BRAMM (British Register of Accredited Monumental Masons) Scheme to undertake work within our cemeteries.
The stonemason will advise you and submit an application on your behalf.
Other types of memorial
We also offer the opportunity to place memorial trees, benches and plaques on benches in some of our cemetery grounds. Locations will be agreed with Bereavement Services.
When a memorial can be erected
A memorial can be erected at any time, even before a burial has taken place in most cemeteries. If you ring or email we can let you know if this is the case for your individual grave.
You may leave flowers in a non-breakable container until a memorial is in place – please do not use glass, ceramic or thin plastic. Please do not plant anything directly into the soil.
Managing and maintaining memorials
Many people wish to place a memorial on the grave of their loved one. Memorials allow you to mark the grave and add a personalised tribute.
The condition and inherent safety of a memorial during its entire lifespan are the responsibility of the purchaser or their heirs.
Restoration and cleaning
Restoration and cleaning must be carried out by a BRAMM registered stonemason or a Register of Qualified Memorial Fixers (RQMF) National Association of Memorials Masons (NAMM) qualified stonemason.
Your mason should apply to us for permission before the work is carried out.
Safety testing
We have a legal obligation to test memorials for safety. This makes sure that the cemetery is a safe environment for staff and visitors to the cemetery.
If your memorial is found to be unstable, and is deemed to be dangerous and liable to cause injury we will make the memorial safe which may include laying the memorial down. If possible we will contact you to explain that repairs are needed and it is ultimately your responsibility to make good any remedial works. If we are unable to contact a present owner we have a legal duty to make the memorial safe.
Your memorial may well be laid flat. If there are no repairs carried out and after further notification we may in some extreme cases lawfully remove the memorial from the cemetery.
Our cemetery staff are always willing to advise, or you could consult your local stonemason or get in touch with the British Register of Accredited Memorial Masons (BRAMM) or National Association of Memorial Masons (NAMM).
Should your memorial still be under guarantee the memorial mason will be responsible to carry out repair at no extra cost to yourself.
Vandalism
Unfortunately vandalism does happen occasionally in cemeteries. We cannot be held liable for any damage caused by the irresponsible actions of others.
We strongly recommend that grave owners take out insurance to protect their memorials. Your stonemason can advise you about this.