There are plenty of young people keen to be monumental masons, according to the trade's national body - but cutbacks are making things tough.
The National Association of Memorial Masons (Namm) said they faced cuts in assistance for training and that fewer individual memorials were being requested.
There are colleges where people can learn the skills required to become memorial masons.
West Dean College in Chichester offers a short course in calligraphy and lettering, which can include learning how to cut letters in stone or slate.
Tutors lead students from the preparation of rough drawings and designs to practical carving in their chosen material.
Namm was founded in 1907 by a small group of British monumental masons anxious to raise standards of workmanship in the craft.
It works closely with its members and other associations, including the Confederation of Burial Authorities, International Monument Federation and the Memorial Awareness Board
Tuesday July 29, 2003
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