If a gravestone isn’t enough, why not take a swab from your loved one’s cheek and keep their DNA forever?

People in Medway now have an option hardly anybody else in this country has – to preserve the DNA of their deceased loved ones.

New technology means doctors are able to store genetic material in a tiny vial and use it when needed to help diagnose medical conditions and calculate the risks to future generations of the family.

Medway funeral director John Weir is leading the way on the scheme, which is currently only available at a few other places in the country – but is common in the United States and Canada.

Mr Weir said: “It may seem strange now, but in years to come this will be something very normal. When people started having ashes made into glass it got a few funny reactions, but now it is much more commonplace.

“This is an amazing scientific leap forward, it doesn’t even need any special storage.

“Who knows what the future holds, and this is a wonderful opportunity.

“It’s certainly something I would consider doing personally. In 50 years time I will be long gone but my family will be able to check if I had any underlying conditions or a history of health problems which it would be helpful to know of.

“Medical experts say it could help various conditions to be pinpointed at an early stage which could potentially save the NHS a fortune.”

Clients can ask for DNA to be taken before cremation or burial and Mr Weir has staff trained in taking samples ready to oblige.

They then get sent off to Canada to be processed and are returned in a tiny vial the size of a ring.

There is also the option of having the DNA encased within a piece of jewellery – but with that option scientists cannot extract the DNA for tests at a later date, it is merely a keepsake.

Mr Weir added: “Arranging the funeral of a loved one can be extremely emotional and some crucial decisions are made in a short space of time, with a long-term impact.

"Who knows what the future holds, and this is a wonderful opportunity" - John Weir

“Many people are choosing cremation for many reasons from cost to convenience.

However, all genealogical and medical DNA are destroyed by the cremation process. Equally, once a person is buried, disinterment is either impossible or very expensive.

“It’s worth thinking about what you want beforehand, with a clear head.”

Simon Rothwell, the European director of CG Labs, said: “Having a detailed genetic history can lead to faster diagnosis of a number of medical issues, including diabetes, cancer, dementia and heart disease.