A special post-box has been unveiled at Preston Cemetery, North Shields, offering a unique way for people to honour those they’ve lost.
Located in the Book of Remembrance Room, the distinctive white post-box allows visitors to write personal letters or cards to loved ones. Messages can be written on wildflower-seeded paper, which are then planted in the Garden of Remembrance as a lasting tribute.
This heartfelt initiative was introduced by E Turnbull & Son Funeral Directors, inspired by a young girl who wanted to write to her late grandparents. It’s now been embraced in other parts of the UK.
If people need more time, the paper can be taken away or collected from the funeral director and posted at a later date.
Ben Broadhead, a seventh-generation director of the 235-year-old family business, approached North Tyneside Council to offer the post-box and paper for the Book of Remembrance Room.
He said: “We hope the post-box brings comfort to those grieving a loved one. Grief can be difficult to express, and this offers a personal way to feel connected to those they miss. We’re honoured to work with North Tyneside Council’s Bereavement Services to support the community through each stage of remembrance.”
The post-box was unveiled on Monday by North Tyneside’s Elected Mayor, Dame Norma Redfearn DBE, who said: “This is a lovely way to help people cope with grief and feel close to those they’ve lost. Grief is never easy, and finding the right words can be hard. Writing a letter, even a simple one, can bring comfort and peace. I’m so glad we can offer this to people of all faiths.”
Councillor Hannah Johnson, Cabinet Member for the Environment, said: “Writing a letter to a loved one who has passed away offers a deeply personal way to process emotions, honour their memory, and feel a continued connection. This initiative provides a gentle and meaningful way for people to do just that, and I hope it brings them comfort.”
The Book of Remembrance Room, a peaceful space for reflection and writing, is open seven days a week until 4.30pm from November to March, and until 6.30pm from April to October.