North Shields cemetery unveils a special post box for families to send letters to deceased loved ones, aiding in remembrance.
Special paper holds wildflower seeds. These get planted in a memorial garden. Flowers will then grow to honor the memory of those who died.
A local funeral home, serving families for 235 years, started this idea. A girl inspired them; she wanted to write to her grandparents.
Ben Broadhead, who runs the funeral home, shared the idea with the local council. He hopes the post box will comfort people, and feels it can help people feel linked to those they miss. He values working with the council to help people remember.
The town mayor, Norma Redfearn, revealed the box. She thinks it helps people deal with their grief, understanding that grief can be tough and words can be hard to find. Writing a letter can offer peace, and she’s glad they can provide this for everyone.
Council member Hannah Johnson also spoke, stating that writing letters helps process emotions. It lets people honor memories and feel connected. She hopes this brings others comfort.
The Room at Preston Cemetery is open daily. It closes at 4:30 PM from November to March, and later, at 6:30 PM, from April to October.