TWO East Lancashire businessmen have begun a new venture providing tender loving care for graves!

Steve Whitehead, from Darwen, and Keith Williamson, from Clayton-le-Moors, made the move after seeing so many unkempt head- stones and plots in the region's churchyards.

The 47-year-olds said relatives would be able to ensure their loved ones really did rest in peace, safe in the knowledge that their graves were being professionally tended.

Steve said: "We both work for a coach company so it is a brave move for both of us to start a new business at the age of 47.

"However, so many people have talked about how upsetting it can be when graves are not looked after that we are sure the business will be a success.

"We want to offer a personal and professional service for all those relatives who, for whatever reason, cannot attend to the graves of their loved ones.

"We will clean the headstone, weed, prune, remove rubbish and dead flowers and will place floral tributes on the grave if requested.

"And for the old or infirm, who cannot get to the graveside, we will take photos of the grave so they can see how well-maintained it is."

Neither Steve nor Keith have any qualms about working so closely with the departed and see it as their chance to do something more rewarding in their work life.

Keith said: "It can be heartbreaking for relatives to see graves fall into disrepair because people don't have the time to visit them as often as they would like.

"And some people, such as the elderly, are simply not up to the work.

"We can now make sure that if a family is planning to visit a grave that it looks tidy for them and fresh flowers have been placed on it.

"We can also organise special floral tributes to be placed at Christmas, birthdays or special anniversaries for as long as the client wants us to."

Steve and Keith are charging £20 per grave visit and are also looking at a "buy before you die" service, where clients can secure a number of grave visits for their own grave.

The pair believe their closest competitor is in Barnoldswick and then Stoke-on-Trent.

For more information about Remember Forever call Steve or Keith on 01254 234007 or 07939 526716.