Cllr Loic Rich with the Letters to Lost Loves Ones postbox
A special post box has been installed at Penmount Memorial Gardens so people can send letters to loved ones who have passed away.
Anyone can put cards, notes or letters in the white box while visiting the beautiful 28-acre garden at Penmount Crematorium, which is owned and managed by Cornwall Council.
Inspired by a nine-year-old girl from Nottingham who wanted to write to her grandparents who had passed away, Letters to Lost Loved Ones post boxes have been put in place at several cemeteries and memorial gardens across the country.
It doesn’t matter when or where the loved one passed away, or the funeral took place, anyone can put their letters, cards or messages in the box. There’s no need to add a stamp, and the messages will not be read by staff. When the box is emptied, the contents are shredded and composted.
Each year the crematorium hosts an Open Garden Event and Remembrance Service. This year’s event will take place on Sunday, June 29, and marks the launch of the Letters to Lost Loved Ones post box.
The Open Garden Event will take place on Sunday, June 29, from 1pm to 4pm with a remembrance service at 2.30pm for those who wish to attend.
Cream teas and drinks available on the lawn, with entertainment from local musician Jamie Bridger.
Loic Rich, portfolio holder for Environment and Climate Change at Cornwall Council, said: “I’m delighted that the memorial post box is in place, and I hope it brings people comfort - as this scheme has in other areas. It really is such a lovely idea.
“The gardens at Penmount Crematorium are truly breathtaking and I encourage people to visit for themselves and join us for this year’s open day.”
The Memorial Gardens at Penmount Crematorium are open to public to enjoy all year round.
Press release issued on June 26, 2025