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Many people choose to erect a memorial on their family grave as a lasting monument to the life of a loved one. With a wide range of natural stone and memorial designs available, it is important to choose carefully. The loss of a loved one can be very distressing, so it is sensible not to rush into making a decision which you may later regret.
One memorial only is permitted on a grave, the type and size of this memorial depends upon the type of grave, although kerbsets used traditionally to mark the boundaries of a grave are not permitted.
Your memorial mason may show you a catalogue of the memorials they are able to provide, however, it should be remembered that not every memorial shown will fall within the specifications found in our Rules and Regulations booklet for the cemeteries under our care.
If you do not already have a copy, please contact the Bereavement Services Section.
Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council operates an Annual Memorial Mason Registration Scheme which aims to ensure that masons working in our cemeteries erect well fitted, safe memorials to the specifications required by our rules and regulations.
A list of Authorised Masons is available from the Bereavement Services Section.
We can not recommend any particular memorial mason, but we would advise you to compare quotes from a number of masons before placing your order. It is advisable to get a full, itemised quote for the work, so that you can compare the quotes like for like.
It is important to remember that you are responsible for the maintenance of your memorial and that if it becomes unsafe, the management of the cemetery has a responsibility to lay it down or remove it.
Many memorial masons offer a memorial maintenance scheme that will include regular cleaning and checking of your memorial. Stockton Council carries out regular inspections of memorials in the five cemeteries under its care, if any major fault is found, the Bereavement Services Section will contact you. In some cases, this will be done by placing a letter on the memorial if we do not have your current address.
You may wish to consider taking out insurance to cover your memorial against accidental damage, vandalism and theft, as repairs could be expensive. Your memorial mason should be able to advise you on a suitable policy.
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