Burial or cremation is a personal decision that you should take the time to think about
We want you to make the right decision for you and your family
The choice between burial and cremation is very personal which may be influenced by many factors, such as; family tradition, religion or the wishes of the person who has died.
Burial
The most common form of burial is in a churchyard or cemetery. Subject to local regulations and availability, you normally have the choice between using a new or existing grave.
Existing graves
If a grave is already in existence, we will need the deed of the grave or some documents relating to it, which may be in your possession. We will help if you do not have the deeds. We will need to check there is room for further interments.
New graves
When purchasing a new grave some local authorities may allow you to reserve or purchase grave space next to the one to be used.
Burial fees
There may be fees for:
- Purchasing a new grave
- Opening the grave
- Removal and replacement of existing headstones
We will advise you on the local charges accordingly.
Alternative burials
There are alternatives to burials in a churchyard or cemetery, such as burial in a vault, at sea, woodland burial and even burial in a local Pet Cemetery alongside your treasured pet.
Repatriation
If the funeral takes place abroad, we will be happy to make all the necessary arrangements for you.
Cremation
Most crematoria incorporate a service chapel. However, you may wish to hold a service in church or another location before the service in the crematorium chapel. Whatever you decide, we can take care of the necessary arrangements for you.
After cremation – your options
When arranging the funeral, you may not have been sure of the final resting place for the ashes. Therefore, it may be necessary to make final arrangements now or allow more time for your decision. There are a number of options and choices in this area and we will be pleased to discuss all possibilities, give advice about local regulations and the costs involved. Our stonemason will be pleased to advise and quote for any memorial you would like.
What will I do with the ashes?
Ashes can be scattered, buried or kept. We strongly recommend you allow time to consider all the options.
Scattering the ashes could be:
- In the grounds of the crematorium
- On a family grave
- In your garden
- At a place with fond memories
- In woodland or moorland
- At sea
- Abroad
In some cases, you may need permission from the appropriate authority.
Burying ashes can be done for a variety of reasons. Families can visit the place of burial and put up a memorial at the site or perhaps place the ashes of more than one family member together. We would be happy to advise on a suitable casket or urn for burial and any memorial you might require.
You may choose to bury the ashes:
- Within the grounds of the crematorium
- In a churchyard
- In a grave
- In your garden
In each case permission should be sought from the appropriate authority, and we would be happy to do this on your behalf.
Some people prefer to keep the ashes at home in a casket or urn designed for that purpose. In some cases, this is so that when a spouse or partner dies, the remains of both can be scattered or buried together.
We would be happy to discuss all options with you. You do not have to make a decision immediately – some crematoria will hold the ashes for a limited time or we can hold them at our funeral home at no charge until a decision has been made.
