Memorials

It is very helpful to many people if following their bereavement they have a focal point for their mourning. At Alford Crematorium we try to provide a variety of memorials.

Book of Remembrance

The simplest memorial is an entry into the Book of Remembrance. Here a calligrapher copies text you have provided onto the parchment of a beautiful leather bound book. Entries can be 2, 5 or 8 lines long and are organised by date, which may be the date of the funeral or death, but could also be a birthday or anniversary. Every day the book is opened at the correct date, allowing inscriptions to be read. For those unable to attend the crematorium or who wish to view the entry on other dates, the book is also made available online here.

Memorial Plaques and tree memorials

We also offer bronze wall plaques and slate tree markers. The bronze wall plaques are attached to the wall of the wreath court and can be viewed at any time the grounds are open. The slate plaques are affixed to oak posts and are placed next to trees within the grounds. This option is particularly suitable for nature lovers, and the type of tree may be chosen by relatives. Ashes may be strewn at the base of the tree when purchasing this type of memorial. In both cases the inscription will normally be 5 to 6 lines long and will be according to the families' wishes.

Ash niches

Another option is to place ashes in a niche in the specially constructed planter in the wreath court. Each niche has two sets of remains and there is room for two commemorative plaques on the plinth of each niche.

An entry into the Book of Remembrance is permanent. The other memorial options are for an initial period of 5 or 10 years, and can then be renewed for further periods of 5 years. This ensures there is always space available for new memorials, and there are no old memorials falling into disrepair. Plaques will be returned to families when they are removed if this has been requested. Ashes which are placed in niches can also be returned to families, or strewn in the grounds.

Floral Tributes

Families are welcome to leave floral tributes in the wreath court. There is space for wreaths and also vases and water are available for cut flowers. Unfortunately no other items may be left and floral tributes may not be left in any other areas. This is to maintain the attractiveness and tranquility of the grounds. Floral tributes will be disposed of when they begin to look untidy, after not less than two days. Items which are left and are deemed inappropriate will be disposed of immediately. This stance may cause disquiet to some people, but is in accordance with the wishes of the majority. For floral arrangements at a funeral please see the Facilities page.