Deep within the historic St Mary the Virgin's church in Barnard Castle, a stone statue of Death stands guard above a grave. This somber figure is said to foretell impending doom, its scythe waving ominously to signal that someone close will soon meet their maker. The statue marks the final resting place of George, son of Humphrey Hopper, and its eerie presence has been a source of fascination for locals and visitors alike.

The story behind this haunting dates back to a time when death was a more familiar presence in everyday life. George Hopper's passing was a significant event, and the stone statue of Death above his grave serves as a poignant reminder of the transience of life. According to local lore, the waving scythe is a crisis manifestation, appearing prior to a death in the family. While its origins are rooted in tragedy, the statue has become an integral part of the church's history and a chilling attraction for those drawn to the paranormal.