The Dead Art – Then & Now memorial photo competition has just been launched by the Memorial Awareness Board for the fourth year.

It is starting a bit later than usual this year because of the loss of insurance firm Bridge as a sponsor. MAB had to find another sponsor in order to be able to offer the £1,000 first prize. New members of the MAB Executive, memorial masons and funeral directors Lodge Brothers, based in Middlesex, have filled the gap.

The competition is open to everyone. Entries have to include two photographs of stone memorials, one of an old memorial and one from the 21^st century. Photos can be black & white or colour, but they have to be the original, unedited photographs.

First prize is £1,000 (thanks to Lodge Brothers). There will also be a runners-up prize of a digital camera this year.

Entries have to be submitted by 4 November.

A panel from the industry will shortlist the 10 photos it likes best. They will be posted on the MAB website (Rememberforever.org.uk) and it will be up to people visiting the website to vote for the pair of photos that they like best.

MAB’s Campaign Director, Mike Dewar, says: “Memorials and cemeteries have long been a favourite subject for photographers. There certainly is no shortage of unusual and interesting memorials throughout UK burial grounds and this competition focuses on capturing and showcasing their unsung beauty.”

Christopher Lodge, Director of Masonry at Lodge Brothers (Funerals) Ltd, says: “As a family business established for more than 200 years, we are really pleased to sponsor this unique photographic competition.

“Memorials play a part in our social history through both personal and public memorials. They are a lasting tribute to loved ones and those who have lost their lives for our country. We sincerely hope that this competition shows the changes within our industry and society through the theme ‘Then and Now’ and raises the awareness and importance of commemorating in stone.”

To enter the competition and for full terms and conditions, visit the MAB website at the address below.