Westerleigh memorial boxes inspire new children’s book

Westerleigh Group’s memorial post boxes have inspired a new children’s picture book, now published by Scholastic Books.

“This Letter Says I Love You” is based on the story of 10-year-old Matilda Handy, who wanted to send letters to her late grandmother. The first white memorial post box was installed in December 2022 at Gedling Crematorium in Nottinghamshire, where Matilda’s mother, Leanne Handy, works. 

The idea has since been adopted at all Westerleigh Group sites and by organisations internationally.

According to the group, more than 100 letters and cards were placed in the Gedling post box within the first few weeks of installation. The initiative was described by some users as offering comfort and connection following a bereavement.

The book features text by author Lucy Rowland and illustrations by Sharon Rentta. It includes a reproduction of Matilda Handy’s original letter, which was the first one ever posted at the Gedling site.

Copies of the book are available at all Westerleigh Group crematoria and from major book retailers.