The development of local sculptors using local stone would be worth promoting. These small plants are composed of a fungus and an algae, and look beautiful under a hand lens. They are disappearing throughout Europe, but grow moderately well in the clean air of Carlisle. Lichens grow on soil, trees and memorials. It is important that memorials are not moved, as the lichens often die in new positions.
Rabbits routinely eat the flowers neatly around the edge of wreaths left at funerals.
They also nip off 'pot mums' leaving a neat stub. This leaves the plant looking as if a gardener had clipped the plant with a pair of shears. Carrion crows pull flowers out of vases in order to drink water. The holly berries on Christmas wreaths are also enjoyed by birds. This is the burial option used by those who are concerned with the environment.