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Client Testimonials
What distinguishes Fergus from other masons is his empathetic and intuitive nature. My husband was an exceptional person, so it was going to have to be an exceptional headstone.
Kathy Archer
As a parent, having the sense that a headstone has been created especially and totally for the child that you've lost, meant such a lot to us.
Tim and Fiona Spargo-Mabbs
As soon as I met Fergus I relaxed, a quiet gentle young man, and as we talked, his passion and dedication for his stone carving became evident. I was never under any pressure, advice came gently.
Jill Archer
Thank you so much for creating such beautiful memorials for members of my family. From discussing initial ideas to delivery of the completed headstones I will be forever grateful for your sympathetic approach and superb craftsmanship.
Hugh Bonneville
I know of no building from the prestigious Oxford College to the modest cottage that could not be improved by the addition of Fergus Wessel’s skill, attention and sensibility. He is in the great tradition of English stone cutters, stretching back to Eric Gill. As an architect, I have been privileged to have his contribution to a number of my buildings, and I regard him as one of the finest stone cutters in the country.
John Melvin, Architect and Town Planner
Fergus carves with power and elegance. His work is forward looking but firmly rooted in traditional practice.
Loyd Grossman, OBE, FSA
Stoneletters provides a highly professional and personal service at what is a very sensitive and traumatic time. Designing your young son’s headstone is something we never imagined we’d have to go through. Fergus and his team produced a piece of art that authentically represented our son’s personality and light. We went on to use Stoneletters for my Mother’s headstone and again using the finest materials available and highly skilled topographers the end result is utterly beautiful. Two handsome monuments to two very loved souls who will be forever remembered long after we are gone. Thank you Fergus and Hannah
Camilla Gooden
Stoneletters in May 2015 completed a large headstone for Guy & Lettie Benson in Stanway Churchyard, with Cumberland slate inset into Cotswold (Guiting) Stone, beautiful lettering and a carved scallop. The work was very well done.
The Earl of Wemyss & March Stanway Estate
Fergus Wessel has a very professional approach to his work. The planning and research is well considered, his work is carefully set out on site to allow for minor alterations and approval prior to cutting the stone. The stone cutting is done with style to leave an image which will last for centuries.
Roger Quarmby, Arthington Park
Fergus Wessel is a master of his craft. His consultation with us was sensitive and kind. We worked on the look, the lettering and the wording together. This was a difficult time for us and he was kind and thoughtful at each stage. And the end result is quite beautiful.
Maggie Parkinson
Fergus Wessel is a master of his craft. His consultation with us was sensitive and kind. We worked on the look, the lettering and the wording together. This was a difficult time for us and he was kind and thoughtful at each stage. And the end result is quite beautiful.
Maggie Parkinson
Fergus has designed two headstones for my family. I am so pleased with them. From the initial meeting to design ideas and completion everything was done with consideration and kindness. Every time I see the stones which stand in an ancient churchyard with many other slate stones I am always pleased with them. I know the people who lie beneath would be pleased with their stones too. They are very personal and have symbols relating to their lives.
Christine Spyer, London
I know of no building from the prestigious Oxford College to the modest cottage that could not be improved by the addition of Fergus Wessel’s skill, attention and sensibility. He is in the great tradition of English stone cutters, stretching back to Eric Gill. As an architect, I have been privileged to have his contribution to a number of my buildings, and I regard him as one of the finest stone cutters in the country.
John Melvin, Architect and Town Planner
The headstone that Fergus and his assistant James crafted for our 24 yr. old son exceeded our expectations. We are pleased that although it is contemporary in design it fits beautifully into the setting of an old English churchyard. Several villagers have commented on the headstone, in particular the originality of the design and the beautiful calligraphy has drawn compliments. It is a wonderful memorial to our young man, someone who liked to stand out from the crowd.
Susan Banerjii
Right from our first conversation I knew Fergus was the right person for our headstone. Always a pleasure to deal with he is a rare find - expert craftsmanship, imaginative design & an exceptional chap to deal with. I am thrilled with the work he did for us; it captures our thoughts and intentions beautifully, with taste, dignity and a touch of modernity. It’s exactly right. Thanks.
Paul Johnson, London
I approached Fergus to commission a headstone for my parents, as I was looking for something different that would encapsulate the way I felt about them. Fergus was brilliant in being able to help and advise me through the design process and the stone that he produced was beautiful. I feel lucky that I found him and without sounding too grandiose, that I have a unique piece of art that commemorates my parents.
David Thomas
I cannot speak highly enough of Fergus’s craftsmanship and professionalism over the ten years or so he has worked with us. His high quality work can be seen in various prominent positions around the School and he always takes great pains to ensure that what he produces is appropriate in the context. We look forward to calling on his services again in the future.
Andrew Turner, Second Master, Charterhouse
Andrew Turner, Second Master, Charterhouse
Rodney Bisiker
We commissioned Fergus Wessel and his team to design and make a headstone for our parents’ grave in West London. From first contact to the last Fergus was a pleasure to work with. He listened carefully to what we wanted, made thoughtful suggestions about the choice of stone, wording and lettering, and dealt with the cemetery over permits and installation. His quote for the work was explained clearly and he kept to the price. Nothing in the relationship was rushed, everything was considered, and the experience was in complete contrast to the ‘pile them high, sell them cheap’ approach of high-volume stonemasons. Fergus’s colleague, James, was just as friendly, careful and considerate when installing the headstone; we recommend anyone to visit the Stone Workshop and satisfy themselves of the quality of the work and the people who carry it out.
Matthew, Toby and Caroline Cummings
We were all very excited to see the headstone on Saturday and we certainly weren’t disappointed. There is stood in its elegant simplicity- absolutely perfect. How wonderful for you, to know that your art will be there for centuries to come and for many generations to appreciate. Thank you so much, from all the family.
Moira Matchett
Fergus’ work was recommended to me by a close friend whose son’s headstone he had done. I was very impressed with the quality of Fergus’ work, which is in the Arts and Crafts tradition, and by his sensitivity in fulfilling the wishes of my family for my late husband’s stone. Fergus explained the characteristics of different materials and what would work, with great care. My four stepchildren and I all think the stone is ‘perfect’. Thank you.
Hillary Davies
Please accept our sincere thanks for the excellent service that we have received from you. The whole family is very impressed by the outstanding quality of the headstone that you have created for Brenda. It was a great pleasure to liase with you over the commission- from the initial contact at your workshop, through the discussions at the design stage and on to the erection of the stone. You have achieved exactly what we had hoped for. Many thanks.
The Higton Family
Fergus Wessel has a very professional approach to his work. The planning and research is well considered, his work is carefully set out on site to allow for minor alterations and approval prior to cutting the stone. The stone cutting is done with style to leave an image which will last for centuries.
Roger Quarmby, Arthington Park
Fergus has been undertaking work in our cemeteries for many years. We are always very impressed with the quality of his work and I have never had any cause for concern. In fact I was recently at a National Trust stately home and, whilst wandering around the gardens, came across a magnificent sun dial that he had created. So his work is not restricted to just memorials and he is highly thought of.
Trevor Jackson, Cemeteries Manager, Oxford City Council
Stoneletters in May 2015 completed a large headstone for Guy & Lettie Benson in Stanway Churchyard, with Cumberland slate inset into Cotswold (Guiting) Stone, beautiful lettering and a carved scallop. The work was very well done.
The Earl of Wemyss & March Stanway Estate
It was throughout a real joy working with Fergus. From initial discussions in the workshop – choosing the stone, deciding on the lettering – to the final installation in the churchyard, everything was a delight. And the finished headstone is perfect – wonderfully elegant lettering on beautiful green slate. Thank you – what might have been a sad business turned into a pleasure (and a great learning experience too)!
Carol O'Brien
The Commandant wanted me to thank you again for providing the plaque for the opening of The Prince Philip Barracks. The unveiling was a definitely a success! Many thanks for all of your work; it has been a pleasure.
Lt James Aubrey
I wanted something special for my late wife Shelley and after having no success with local stonemasons got in touch with Fergus. All I can say is that I am glad that I did. I can’t thank him enough for the work he has done and the stylish simplicity of the design is exactly what I wanted and so fitting for Shelley. Fergus was really informative and helpful through the process and he and James worked in quite atrocious weather to get the headstone installed in time for Shelley’s birthday which meant a lot to me. Many thanks.
John Davies
Thank you so much for the stunning stone and the lovely craftsmanship. We are all so pleased with the stone and I am so delighted we found you, it made a dreaded job really special, you are also the nicest person and so easy to get on with.
Carolyn Raybould
Thank you so much for your work on my mother’s headstone, I am really very pleased with it. I have taken some photos and sent them to family abroad, who all agree that it is very beautiful and fitting! My brother and sister have also said that it is a lovely piece of work and a fitting tribute to our mother.
Linda Covill
I lost my husband eight years ago.He was a very creative man and I wanted a headstone that was simple but beautifully designed and cut.I found Fergus Wessel via the Internet. I was invited to his workshop in the Cotswolds to see his examples of carving. At this time, I felt very vulnerable, very alone and anxious. As soon as I met Fergus I relaxed, a quiet gentle young man, however as we talked, his passion and dedication for his stone carving became evident. I was never under any pressure,advice came gently. His workshop was a revelation,and I was able to take my time,and I was immediately aware of the great quality of his work and his wide range of approaches, choice of material and use of lettering. Every time I visit my husband’s grave,I feel happy,-happy memories of getting him a headstone I love, and he would have loved, and happy memories of the whole experience, that took part at the lowest time in my life.
Jill Archer
Thank you so very much for the headstone. It really is a work of art and looks splendid! It is so good to know that the headstone and the lettering will be of lasting quality, something that one doesn’t get with machine cut work. The craftsmanship and the care with which the work is done are worth paying that bit extra for. Fergus took great care to ensure the type of stone and the lettering were just what we wanted. My parents, to whom it is dedicated,would be proud! I really enjoyed meeting you both as well. Will definitely recommend you.
Holly Holman
We visited the grave on Saturday and I am very pleased with the headstone, it captures perfectly the feel and serenity I was seeking. Thank you for your patience and craftsmanship, my father would have appreciated it.
Tony Clements
We were delighted with my late husband’s headstone. It is exactly as we wanted it,simple and elegant with fine lettering. Fergus listened and delivered the result we were trying to achieve and looks just right in the Churchyard in a conservation area.
Gill Lowe
Our sincere thanks and appreciation for the beautiful work accomplished in our parents’ headstone. It looks absolutely right in the churchyard in Bury and your advice of simplicity being key was sound advice indeed! We would have no hesitation in recommending your services.
Joanna Richardson
Thanks so much for your work and advice on the stone. I had been so excited to see it yesterday and was worried it would not live up to my expectations but it was better than them. We all really loved it - it looks magnificent and we found the whole process, although long, was very cathartic in working together and being united in coming up with something they would have liked and we all loved. It really is a thing of beauty - and we all love the “Jo and hearty” on the side. I look forward to it giving me a thrill every time I go down there and see and stroke it.
James Bisset
Following the sudden passing of my beautiful husband, the time came to select a headstone to represent his life. My two young children and I visited all the local memorial makers and felt dissatisfied with the lack of uniqueness and choice; the same brochures of the same stones in each one we visited. I wanted something special and unique, something that would be beautiful in years to come and that the children could be involved in the process. We wanted the memorial to be uplifting tribute rather than a thing of sadness and sorrow, despite our obvious feelings of grief. When I found Fergus and Hannah’s website and spoke to Fergus on the phone, I instantly felt reassured and knew then that I had made the right choice. We discussed drawings and ideas and he invited us to visit the workshop. It was obvious to see that each stone was special to Fergus too, a labour of love for the husband/dad we love so much. The headstone itself, now respectfully and reverently installed, is totally beautiful and exactly what I had pictured. I know that it will help my children to see just how special and unique their daddy was and, due to their involvement in the process, that they made something beautiful for him. Fergus helped me to reflect on the choice of the words at one point, which he did in a kind and gentle way, but as a result, the words we have chosen now, are perfect and will stand the test of time as an uplifting tribute to my husband’s much loved, yet too short, life. I am so very grateful that I found Hannah and Fergus and I encourage others to seek their help, if you are in a similar position and have lost a loved one. Anyone can buy a headstone but these stones are made with love for the ones we love.
Anna Deen
Stoneletters provides a highly professional and personal service at what is a very sensitive and traumatic time. Designing your young son’s headstone is something we never imagined we’d have to go through. Fergus and his team produced a piece of art that authentically represented our son’s personality and light. We went on to use Stoneletters for my Mother’s headstone and again using the finest materials available and highly skilled topographers the end result is utterly beautiful. Two handsome monuments to two very loved souls who will be forever remembered long after we are gone. Thank you Fergus and Hannah
Camilla Gooden
I would like so thank you and Fergus for producing a very beautiful headstone for my wife Ann. It brings back happy memories when I visit the Church. Fergus was very particularly helpful with the selection of the type of stone and its design. He was exceptionally patient while we tried to finalise the wording, which probably took longer than it should have. I was especially touched by his meeting Ann’s Birthday Deadline. A date that he did not actually commit to. ” 5/5 stars
Chris Dobson
When our father died we thought long and hard about a suitable gravestone - which also had to be agreed upon by several other family members. Fergus was very patient at dealing with the various thoughts and also very efficient at negotiating with the church authorities to find out what was possible in the parish. Fergus produced a beautiful slate tablet with an elegant and fitting inscription which accommodated everyone’s’ wishes and is a great tribute to a much-loved man.
Sam and Henry Walker
The Trustees of the French Hospital (an almshouse charity at La Providence, Rochester) commissioned Fergus to create a special plaque to commemorate the 300th Anniversary of their foundation. He turned a simple concept into something breathtakingly beautiful, which is admired by all who see it. It was a real pleasure working with Fergus on the project (my visit to his workshop was not to be missed), and I cannot recommend him too highly.
Edward Martineau, Secretary to the trustees
For me, the headstone is a beautiful tribute to my sister and has brought with it a great sense of acceptance and peace. Perhaps this is something to do with the process and the time it took for each stage as well as the physical solidity and fact of the headstone, and then, once done, the knowledge that it is there. It’s a really beautiful lasting tribute, combining words, artistry, skill, thought and feeling – and more I’m sure besides these things.
Serena Jones
Thank you so much for your skill, patience and support over the past few years whilst we agonised over finding the right words for David’s headstone. We were always confident (from our very first meeting) in your ability to guide us in finding the right slate, and that the carving would be fitting – and now the resultant finished stone is just right. Thank you for helping us to get to the right decision, without hurrying us, even though some 5 years have passed between our first contacting you and the date the stone was eventually erected at St. Paul’s churchyard. We are grateful for your understanding of the process we were all going through, for your dedication to agreeing on the right words, font and spacing, and lettering. Although the result is very simple, your craftsmanship has ensured that it is a perfect and fitting memorial to a wonderful husband and father. The quality of your work is exceptional, and David would have thoroughly approved, as a fellow perfectionist. Thank you Fergus, David would have approved of the headstone, and of you too.
Anne George
Every member of our team strives for perfection, combining traditional tools and techniques with a fresh and open-minded approach. This is what makes us special.
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