An observation in a churchyard was the inspiration behind a new business that helps people keep alive the memories of their departed loved ones.

Precious Loved Ones provides a personalised grave and memorial maintenance service for people who cannot look after the final resting places of family and friends.

The idea behind it came when David Harwood, of Stapleford, visited the churchyard at Stanley, near Ilkeston, earlier this year where his mother Sandra was tending the grave of a long-deceased relative.

"I was just watching when I realised the number of graves and memorial plaques that were unattended and looking scruffy or uncared for," said David.

"This gives the impression that those who had passed away have been forgotten about, which is often far from the truth. Because of the busy lives we lead a lot of people do not have the time or resources to properly look after graves."

This was David's 'light bulb moment' when he realised the business potential, considering the number of churchyards, cemeteries and crematoria.

Within the last six years David had suffered serious ill-health which had set him back, though he was looking for a business idea and opportunity.

After discussions with father Tony, and brother-in-law Clinton Walker of Colwick, Nottingham, they set up Precious Loved Ones to provide a service of tending graves by weeding, pruning and grass cutting and cleaning masonry.

Fresh flowers can be provided or planting can be done as part of the service which can be done on a regular basis or special occasions such as birthdays, anniversaries, and religious dates.

The company has a pool of 10 professional gardeners that can be contracted to do the work, though this number can easily be increased as the business grows with plans to provide a service across the Midlands.