Stonemason's quest to restore war memorials

A Glossop-based stonemasonry company is hoping to help communities across the High Peak restore and preserve their war memorials.

Salthouse Stonemasonry, founded by craftsman Sam Salthouse in 2012, recently completed the restoration of the Chapel-en-le-Frith War Memorial. Funding for that project was secured through the War Memorials Trust, and now Sam hopes other local parishes will follow Chapel’s example and apply for similar grants to support further work in the region. 

“The Chapel project really struck a chord with us” said Sam, whose two grandfathers served in the army - one before and one after the Second World War. “When you stop and read those names, many of them so young, it really hits home. It’s spurred us on to give something back by helping other communities care for their cherished links to the past.” 

Many of the area’s memorials have become weathered over time, with stone surfaces darkened by moss, dirt and pollution. Salthouse Stonemasonry uses a specialist DOFF steam cleaning system, which combines superheated steam at low pressure to gently clean stonework without causing damage. The eco-friendly process safely removes grime and biological growth while preserving delicate carvings and inscriptions. It also kills spores, helping to prevent regrowth and ensuring the memorials can be appreciated for years to come. 

Photo: Chapel-en-le-Frith War Memorial before the cleaning.

“We clean them in the most sympathetic way possible,” Sam explained. “Other companies can charge tens of thousands for this kind of heritage work, but we aim to do it as economically as we can - essentially just covering our costs. It’s about honouring the memory of the people who served our country.” 

Because war memorials are listed or protected structures, parish councils must obtain permission from Historic England before restoration can begin. Sam and his team can guide councils through the permissions process and assist in applying for funding from the War Memorials Trust to make these projects achievable. 

With Remembrance Sunday approaching, Sam hopes more communities will take action to restore their local memorials. 

“When the Chapel memorial was cleaned, people immediately noticed it - it draws your eye again,” he said. “That’s what we want: for people to stop, look and remember.” 

Photo: Chapel-en-le-Frith War Memorial after the cleaning.

Beyond war memorials, Salthouse Stonemasonry has built a strong reputation over the past decade for heritage and conservation work across the High Peak. The experienced team specialises in stone carving and restoration for historic buildings, including fireplaces, window surrounds, headstones and other architectural features. They are also experts in traditional hot lime pointing and stone repair, ensuring the long-term preservation of older structures. The company designs bespoke stonework for both period and contemporary properties and offers heritage consultancy, advising on traditional materials and conservation best practice. 

Sam trained with Jack Badger, a traditional joinery firm in Old Glossop, before establishing his own business. “We’re passionate about keeping traditional crafts alive,” he said. “We mix our own lime mortar, work by hand, and focus on preserving the original fabric of historic buildings. It’s about craftsmanship that lasts.” 

Salthouse Stonemasonry is currently seeking a young apprentice aged 16 to 21 who is eager to learn the trade, helping to pass on stonemasonry skills to the next generation: “The craft of stonemasonry is part of our local heritage, just like the buildings and memorials we work on” Sam added. 

The company is now encouraging parish councils across the High Peak to come forward and explore funding opportunities through the War Memorials Trust. By securing the necessary permissions and grants, local communities can help ensure their memorials are preserved with the care and respect they deserve. 

“We’re ready to help with the process” said Sam. “We just need councils to take that first step so these memorials can be restored to their former dignity.” 

For more information or to discuss a local war memorial restoration project, visit www.salthousestonemasonry.co.uk