Thurmaston 0116 269 6575
Birstall 0116 267 2560
24 Hours
Which type of ceremony?
More and more people are opting for non-religious services or humanist funeral ceremonies, as they are often called.
A typical ceremony will celebrate the life of the deceased with respect, compassion and humour.
Poetry and favourite music is used where appropriate and family and friends may also contribute during the funeral.
The ceremony might take place at a cemetery or natural burial ground or you may chose a crematorium chapel,
a community centre, village hall or other public building - even perhaps your home.
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Any transport can be used, it’s not unusual to see a motorbike, truck or a horse drawn carriage. Services can be conducted by a minister of your choice, a non-religious official or even a member of the deceased’s family or friend.
We are available 24 hours a day and are happy to help and advise with all your funeral arrangements.
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Cremation or Burial?
This is normally down to the personal choice of the deceased who may have indicated their preference either personally or with instructions in their will. If no choice has been made it is normally the decision of the next of kin which may give an added burden at a distressing time if they do not know the deceased’s wishes.
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Is cremation more expensive than burial?
No. Generally the cost of a grave is much higher than the fee charged for cremation although funeral charges are similar for both services.
What happens when I buy a grave?
Ownership of the purchased grave normally lasts for 100 years, however this can be ‘topped up’. You must indicate how many burials will be required in the plot as this determines the depth of the first burial. You cannot change this once the first burial has taken place as there are legal requirements as to how much earth must be left on top of the last coffin. However, cremated remains, caskets or urns may still be buried within the graves.
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Can I place a memorial on the grave or garden of remembrance?
There are many different types of graves available, some allow personal tributes as well as a headstone, certain gardens of remembrance do not allow any personal tributes or marker as the area is used for scattering ashes of many people. In this instance there is usually an area nearby where a plaque may be erected to commemorate your loved one. Please check with your chosen cemetery.
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Can I be buried or have my ashes scattered anywhere?
Before scattering ashes other than in a cemetery it is advisable to gain the permission of the landowner (a fee may be payable). Burials may be within a local authority controlled cemetery (eg. District or Parish Council) or a privately owned cemetery/natural burial ground.
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Cemetery Chapel in Thurmaston
This fine Victorian building was last used for funeral services in the 1980s and can now once again be used for both religious and non-religious services by families of any faith. The chapel benefits from rewiring, improved lighting, repaired stained glass windows, installation of heating and restoration of all woodwork including the original pews.
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