After nearly 40 years in the trade, completing much of his work in Ross-on-Wye, stonemason Nigel Cave recently moved two statues, a task which almost brought his career in full circle.

Nigel began his career at Ursells in Ross in 1979 as a letter cutter and fixer. He completed his training there and was able to celebrate the centenary of Ursells in 1985.

While working in the yard on Cantilupe Road, Nigel was always very aware of two large, heavy stone statues representing St Peter and St Paul.

The statues were apprenticeship pieces created by Alfred William Ursell in about 1850, and he brought them with him when he started the company in Ross in 1885.

Nigel told the Ross Gazette that the statues are still in Ross and in a safe place, still under the care of the Ursell family

Nigel left Ursells to work for Nimbus Records but when he was made redundant six months later he decided to work for himself. He founded Monmouth Memorials in 1988, mainly carrying out lettering and erecting memorials.

He believes he is one Ross’ best kept secrets. He said that because the company is called Monmouth Memorials, many people do not realise just how much work he completes in Ross. He told the Gazette that he has carved about 100 of the cremation tablets in St Mary’s Church Garden of Remembrance alone.

Nigel has always had a connection to Ross, his father lived in Springfield Road for many years.

He said he is a traditional stonemason and does a lot of repairs to old fashioned memorials. Most of his work is still hand carved but some automation has come in and the biggest change is the focus on health and safety. He is a member of BRAMM, which he describes as being like the CORGI sign of safety for gas fitters.

Part of the work he really enjoys is learning about the old Ross families as he carries out his work at the graveyard. His wife has a complimentary business as she offers a service to people who cannot tend to a grave as often as they would like. She visits regularly, tidies the grave and lays flowers for special occasions if a family so requests.See this week’s paper for more stories like this, available in shops and as a Digital Edition now