The NATURAL DEATH HANDBOOK

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The 382-page 4th edition of the Natural Death Handbook, with update sheets, is available via our book ordering page.

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Good Crematoria & Cemeteries

Good Crematoria & Cemeteries

(Last updated March 1st 2000)

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  • The North West (comprising Cumbria, Lancashire, Manchester, Sefton, Wirral, Liverpool, Knowsley, St Helens, Wigan, Bolton, Bury, Rochdale, Salford, Trafford, Manchester, Oldham, Tameside, Stockport and Cheshire)


  • The North East (comprising Northumberland, Newcastle-Upon-Tyne, North Tyneside, Gateshead, South Tyneside, Sunderland, Durham, Hartlepool, Stockton-On-Tees, Middlesbrough, Redcar, North Yorkshire, York, East Riding of Yorkshire, Kingston-Upon-Hull, Bradford, Leeds, Calderdale, Kirklees, Wakefield, Barnsley, Sheffield, Rotherham, Doncaster, North Lincolnshire, North East Lincolnshire and Lincolnshire)

  • Wales (comprising Flintshire, Wrexham, Denbighshire, Aberconwy and Colwyn, Anglesey, Caernarfonshire and Merionethshire, Powys, Cardiganshire, Pembrokeshire, Carmarthenshire, Swansea, Neath and Port Talbot, Bridgend, Rhondda Cynon Taff, Vale of Glamorgan, Merthyr Tydfil, Caerphilly, Cardiff, Blaenau Gwent, Torfaen, Newport, Monmouthshire)

  • West Midlands (comprising Shropshire, Staffordshire, Wolverhampton, Walsall, Dudley, Sandwell, Birmingham, Solihull, Coventry, Hereford and Worcester, Gloucestershire)

  • East Midlands (comprising Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Leicestershire, Rutland, Warwickshire, Northamptonshire, Bedfordshire, Oxfordshire, Buckinghamshire)

  • East Anglia (comprising Norfolk, Suffolk, Essex, Cambridgeshire and Hertfordshire)

  • The South West (comprising South Gloucestershire, Bristol, Bath and North East Somerset, North West Somerset, Somerset, Dorset, Devon, Cornwall)

  • The South (comprising Wiltshire, Berkshire, Surrey, Kent, Hampshire, West Sussex, East Sussex)

  • London region (including old Middlesex)

  • Scotland

  • Eire & Northern Ireland

    Unless otherwise stated, you can assume that all the cemeteries and crematoria listed are prepared to deal with families not using funeral directors. Abbreviations in bold are as follows:

    Cem = Cemetery

    Crem = Crematorium

    ***= Winner of a New Natural Death Handbook Award 2000.

    Those crematoria listed as willing to take home-made coffins do so on condition that such coffins meet the anti-pollution requirements of the Federation of British Cremation Authorities, as set out in Chapter 4. Shrouds, if listed as acceptable by either crematoria or cemeteries, are normally required to be made rigid with a plank; likewise body bags, which would also normally need to be covered with a drape of some kind. These institutions do not want to cause offence to staff or to other members of the public.

    Listings are by region, and then by town within the region, except in the Greater London region, which has been further subdivided into areas. Please contact The Natural Death Centre (6 Blackstock Mews, Blackstock Road, London N4 2BT UK, tel 020 7359 8391; fax 020 7354 3831; e-mail: rhino@dial.pipex.com; web: www.naturaldeath.org.uk) with your experience of using your local crematorium or cemetery, whether positive or negative, and including as much detail as possible; please add if you are nominating them for a future award. Our listings are otherwise based on information given to us by the services themselves - the name of the informant is given wherever possible.

    North West

    Comprising Cumbria, Lancashire, Manchester, Sefton, Wirral, Liverpool, Knowsley, St Helens, Wigan, Bolton, Bury, Rochdale, Salford, Trafford, Manchester, Oldham, Tameside, Stockport and Cheshire.

  • Cem Accrington: Accrington (Huncoat) Cemetery, Burnley Road, Accrington, Hyndburn, Lancashire BB5 6HA (tel 01254 232933). Plot (100 years) incl. digging and burial £542. They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins. Length of funeral service: 30 minutes (extra time can be booked for £62). Chapel: As crematorium below. Grounds: 'Well-tended seating areas.' Memorials: 'Standard headstone style and type, within size restrictions.' 'There are separate plots for different religious denominations and an infant memorial area for foetal remains, stillborn children and small infants. Staff are caring and dedicated' (Janice Tolson).

  • Cem Accrington: Dill Hall (Church of Clayton-le-Moors) Cemetery, Dill Hall Lane, Church, Near Accrington, Hyndburn, Lancashire (tel 01254 232933). Plot (100 years) incl. digging and burial £429-35. They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins. Length of funeral service: 30 minutes (extra time can be booked for £62). Chapel: Accrington Crematorium is the nearest available. Grounds: 'A small cemetery with plots for Church of England and Roman Catholics.' Memorials: 'Standard headstone style and type, within size restrictions.' 'A "memorial wall" has been built for the burial and memorial of cremated remains of a loved one' (Janice Tolson).

  • Crem Accrington: Accrington Crematorium, The Cemetery Office, Burnley Road, Accrington, Hyndburn, Lancashire BB5 6HA (tel 01254 232933). Price: £180. Time allotted: 20 minutes within a thirty minute period (extra time can be booked for £62). They will accept home-made and cardboard coffins. Chapel: 'Church-like; traditional nonconformist, cruciform design, seating 80.' Grounds: 'Burial plots on all sides of the chapel.' 'We are always willing to assist and be flexible to requests. Good disabled access' (Janice Tolson).

  • Cem Alderley Edge: Alderley Edge Cemetery, Chelford Road, Alderley Edge SK9 7TQ; run by the Macclesfield Borough Council, from Macclesfield Cemetery, Prestbury Road, Macclesfield, SK10 3BU (tel 01625 422330 or 422408 or 504511). Plot (100 years) incl. digging and burial £487 (double for non-residents). They will accept cardboard or wicker coffins. Length of funeral service: 20 minutes (extra time can be booked for £52). No chapel. Grounds: 'Quiet rural setting, with a view of the town and the "edge" ' (John J. Thomas).

  • Cem Askam-in-Furness: Ireleth Cemetery, Broughton Road, Askam-in-Furness, Cumbria (tel 01229 824928). No Chapel. Grounds: 'A small cemetery next to the local churchyard with superb views of the Duddun estuary' (C. R. Pollard). Other details as for Barrow-in-Furness Cemetery below.

  • Cem Atherton: Atherton Cemetery, Leigh Road, Atherton, Lancashire. Other details as for Leigh Cemetery below.

  • Cem Nr. Atherton: Hovebridge Cemetery, Lovers Lane, Near Atherton, Lancashire. Other details as for Leigh Cemetery below.

  • Cem Barrow-in-Furness: Barrow-in-Furness Cemetery, Devonshire Road, Barrow-in-Furness, Cumbria (tel 01229 894928). Plot (99 years) incl. digging and burial £405. Maintenance: £142. They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins and body bags or shrouds. Length of funeral service: 45 minutes (extra time can be booked without charge). Chapel: '1960s crematorium chapel.' Grounds: 'On a hillside overlooking the town, with views across the Irish Sea.' Memorials: 'Natural stone, within size restrictions.' 'Several areas are left uncut to encourage wild flowers.' For details of the woodland burial ground see The Natural Death Centre's list of Woodland Burial Sites (C. R. Pollard).

  • Crem Barrow-in-Furness: Thorncliffe Crematorium, Cemetery Office, Devonshire Road, Barrow-in-Furness, Cumbria LA14 5PD (tel 01229 894928). Price: £214. Time allotted: 45 minutes (extra time can be booked without charge). They will accept home-made or cardboard coffins. Chapel: Modern, non-denominational with flexible seating. Grounds: 'Surrounded by a glade of remembrance and cemetery.' 'Because we are a smaller crematorium the staff offer a more personal, friendly service' (C. R. Pollard).

  • Cem Burnley: Burnley Cemetery, 93 Rossendale Road, Burnley BB11 5DD (tel 01282 664600 to 664615). Plot (40 years) incl. digging and burial £668 (double for non-residents, although this extra amount is not applicable to former residents who purchased the exclusive Right of Burial when residing within the Borough). They will accept home-made or cardboard coffins. Length of funeral service: Not strictly limited. Chapel: 'Victorian, sombre.' Grounds: 'Woodland to rear. Part of cemetery in tranquil setting.' Memorials: 'Restrictions vary in different sections of the cemetery; no new sidestones, etc allowed; inscriptions not to cause offence, etc.' 'We are currently adopting the Charter for the Bereaved.' 'There are separate plots for different religious denominations, an infant memorial area, and caring and dedicated staff' (John Cummings).

  • *** Cem Carlisle: Carlisle Cemetery, Richardson Street, Carlisle CA2 6AL (tel 01228 625310; e-mail: kenw@carlisle-city.gov.uk). Plot (50 years) incl. digging and burial £445. They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins and body bags or shrouds. Length of funeral service: No limit. Chapel: 'Attractive, Gothic design. Warm, with seating for 100.' Grounds: 'Parkland in wooded setting with conservation zones. There are waterfalls on a natural beck, a squirrel feeder, a lichen reserve, nesting herons, etc.' Memorials: 'Traditional graves are not subject to restrictions, lawn memorials must be within size limits.' They have adopted the Charter for the Bereaved. 'Our range of graves and coffins enable us to meet all religious and personal needs without difficulty. We have added a further choice, the 'recycled funeral' for those who require a simple, inexpensive burial with no memorial. We maintain both conservation areas and conventionally attractive cemetery grounds. We have arranged many funerals with families and know that funerals arranged without a funeral director are at least as good, and often better, than those that take the conventional path.' (Ken West). For details of their woodland burial ground, see The Natural Death Centre's list of Woodland Burial Sites. Winner of the New Natural Death Handbook Award 2000 for the Best Cemetery in the UK.

  • *** Crem Carlisle: Carlisle Crematorium, Bereavement Services, Cemetery Office, Richardson Street, Carlisle CA2 6AL (tel 01228 625310; e-mail: kenw@carlisle-city.gov.uk). Price: £217 for 'environmental cremation' in a cardboard coffin, normal fee £243. Time allotted: 40 minutes (extra time can be booked without charge). They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins and body bags or shrouds. (For their range of coffins see their woodland burial site entry in The Natural Death Centre's list of Woodland Burial Sites.) For cremation, a reusable coffin is available, with an inner Compakta cardboard coffin, at a total cost of £90. They can provide cold storage for the body at a charge of £9-25 for up to 24 hours, £12-75 for up to 48 hours or £16 for over 48 hours. Extra bearers to help the family can be supplied at £6 per person. Chapel: 'Non-denominational with flexible seating. One family decorated the chapel with posters based on photographs, so the feel of the chapel can be significantly changed.' Grounds: 'Four different zones ensure that the different needs and beliefs of individuals do not intrude upon others: The Peace Garden is bedded out and highly-maintained providing the principal view from the Hall of Remembrance; the monthly gardens are planted to a seasonal pattern; the woods are for those who prefer a return to nature and may oppose high maintenance regimes; and the memorial wall offers the only cremation memorial option.' 'The service has adopted with the Charter for the Bereaved, offering both traditional and environmental options. The environmental options also prove far less expensive, offering savings against the cremation fee, and the provision of biodegradable coffins. Our attitude is one of complete openness, giving the bereaved complete access to the information they need in order to obtain a meaningful funeral. There is no commercial pressure or bias towards so-called conventional funerals' (Ken West). Winner of the New Natural Death Handbook Award 2000 for the Best Crematorium in the UK.

  • Cem Cheadle: Mill Lane Cemetery, Manchester Road, Cheadle; run by Stockport Metropolitan Borough Council, from the Stockport Crematorium, 31a Buxton Road, Heaviley, Stockport SK2 6LS (tel 0161 480 5221; fax 0161 480 6992). Plot (75 years) incl. digging and burial £755 (£675 extra for non-residents). They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins. Length of funeral service: 45 minutes (extra time can be booked for £55). No chapel. Grounds: 'A lawn cemetery, newly laid out with roads and drives designed for modern corteges; mostly native species trees.' Memorials: 'The site's planning permission allows only flat desk-shaped memorials of granite or slate.' 'The modern layout has made this cemetery very popular. It has a high standard of maintenance' (N. Buckley).

  • Cem Clitheroe: Clitheroe Cemetery, Waddington Road, Clitheroe, Lancashire (tel 01200 425111; e-mail: ); run by the Ribble Valley Borough Council. Plot (100 years) incl. digging and burial £356 (double for non-residents). They will accept cardboard coffins. Length of funeral service: 'No limit at the graveside.' No chapel. Grounds: 'A beautiful rural location.' Memorials: 'Hard stone only. Size restriction in the lawn cemetery. We maintain a high standard of customer care' (Judith Paliga). There is also a woodland burial area on the cemetery's perimeter - see The Natural Death Centre's list of Woodland Burial Sites for details.

  • Crem Crewe: Crewe Crematorium, Crewe Cemetery Office, Market Close, Crewe, Cheshire CW1 2NA (tel 01270 212643; web: Natural Death Centre . www.crewe-nantwich.gov.uk/worksservices); run by the Crewe and Nantwich Borough Council. Price: £212 (£235 for non-residents). Time allotted: 40 minutes (extra time can be booked for £38). They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins and body bags or shrouds. Chapel: 'Non-denominational, with flexible seating, for a maximum of 88 people.' Grounds: 'Good grounds and flower beds.' They have adopted the Charter for the Bereaved and have attained the BSI 9002 standard for cemetery and crematorium management. 'There is a woodland area for cremated remains, which is supported by the Cheshire Wildlife Trust' (Mrs Mary M. Slinn).

  • Cem Dalton-in-Furness: Dalton-in-Furness Cemetery, Cemetery Hill, Newton Road, Dalton-in-Furness, Cumbria (tel 01229 894928). No chapel. Grounds: 'Edge of town with views to the neighbouring countryside. It is an old cemetery with graves dating back to 1800' (C. R. Pollard). Other details as for Barrow-in-Furness Cemetery above.

  • Crem Distington: Distington Hall Crematorium, Distington, Workington, Cumbria CA14 4QY (tel 01946 830561). Price: £214-90 (£13-50 extra for non-residents). Time allotted: 30 minutes. They will accept cardboard or wicker coffins. Chapel: 'Modern, non-denominational.' Grounds: 'A natural woodland setting.' 'Reasonably priced and well maintained' (Mr S. J. Benn).

  • Cem Great Harwood: Great Harwood Cemetery, Blackburn Road, Great Harwood, Near Blackburn, Lancashire (tel 01254 232 933). Plot (100 years) incl. digging and burial £504 (double for non-residents). They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins. No chapel. Grounds: 'Set in a quiet side of town.' Memorials: 'Standard headstone style and materials; there are size restrictions.' 'We are currently considering adoption of the Charter for the Bereaved. The cemetery is well maintained with a caring cemetery foreman' (Mrs Janice Tolson).

  • Cem Hindley: Hindley Cemetery, Castle Hill Road, Hindley, Near Wigan, Lancashire. Other details as for Leigh Cemetery below.

  • Cem Knowsley: Knowsley Cemetery, Fox's Bank Lane, Whiston, Knowsley (tel 0151 443 5231); run by the Knowsley Metropolitan Borough Council, 9 West Street, Knowsley L34 1LF. Plot (99 years) incl. digging and burial £424 (£212-50 extra for non-residents). There is no maintenance charge. Length of funeral service: 45 minutes. No chapel. Grounds: 'Open countryside'. Memorials: '3' 3" high, 2' 6" wide' (John Profitt).

  • Cem Knutsford: Knutsford Cemetery, Tabley Hill Lane, Tabley, Knutsford WA16 OEW; run by the Macclesfield Borough Council, from Macclesfield Cemetery, Prestbury Road, Macclesfield, SK10 3BU (tel 01625 422330 or 422408 or 504511). Plot (100 years) incl. digging and burial £487 (doubled for non-residents). They will accept cardboard or wicker coffins. Length of funeral service: 20 minutes (extra time can be booked for £52). Chapel: 'Fine Victorian octagonal building atop Tabley Hill, compact and airy and light, with space heating.' Grounds: 'The cemetery stands out on top of the hill, overlooking the town.' Memorials: 'Lawn-type memorials only, with size restrictions' (John J. Thomas).

  • Cem Leigh: Leigh Cemetery, Manchester Road, Leigh, Lancashire (tel 01942 828507). Plot (100 years) incl. digging and burial £420 (£210 extra for non-residents), run by Wigan Borough Council. They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins. Length of funeral service: 30 minutes (extra time can be booked without charge). No chapel. Memorials: 'Lawn memorials only, within size restrictions.' 'Wigan Borough Council (see under F. D. Wigan below), with the co-operation of a specified reputable funeral director, is now able to offer a low cost, but nevertheless dignified funeral service to local residents' (A Bassett).

  • Cem Lytham St. Annes: Park Cemetery, Regent Avenue, Lytham St. Annes, Lancashire FY8 4AB (tel 01253 735429). Plot (100 years) incl. digging and burial £495 (£990 non-residents). They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins. Length of funeral service: 30 minutes (extra time can be booked without charge). Chapel: As crematorium below. Grounds: As crematorium below. Memorials: 'Within size restrictions; no kerbing' (Mr A. Royston).

  • Crem Lytham St Annes: Lytham Park Crematorium, Park Cemetery, Regent Avenue, Lytham St Annes, Lancashire FY8 4AB (tel 01253 735429). Price: £190. Time allotted: 25 minutes within a 30 minute period (extra time can be booked without charge). They will accept home-made coffins if made from natural wood, cardboard coffins if approved by Federation, or body bags approved for cremation. Chapel: 'Standard 1950s.' Grounds: 'Open view of fields.' 'Saturday services are available' (Mr A. Royston).

  • Cem Macclesfield: Prestbury Road, Macclesfield SK10 3BU (tel 01625 422330 or 422408 or 504511); run by the Macclesfield Borough Council. Plot (100 years) incl. digging and burial £487 (double for non-residents). They will accept cardboard or wicker coffins. Length of funeral service: 20 minutes (extra time can be booked for £52). Chapel: 'The crematorium chapel is used: a Victorian building, in a quiet and simple style, seating up to 70 persons, centrally heated.' Grounds: 'Near town centre, adjacent to a park and arboretum. The grounds have mature trees and a rhododendron shrubbery.' Memorials: 'Lawn-type memorials only, with size restrictions.' 'Although near the town centre, the area is in a quiet rural setting overlooking the wooded Whitfield Brook Valley, with a view out to the surrounding hills' (John J. Thomas).

  • Crem Macclesfield: Macclesfield Crematorium, Cemetery Lodge, Prestbury Road, Macclesfield SK10 3BU (tel 01625 422330 or 422408 or 504511); run by the Macclesfield Borough Council. Price: £195. Time allotted: 30 minutes (extra time can be booked for £195). They will accept cardboard coffins. Chapel: 'Fine Victorian nonconformist chapel made from local stone. Movable seating pews.' Grounds: 'Overlooking a pool and stream in an established arboretum valley.' 'We provide a reasonably flexible service' (John J. Thomas).

  • Cem Manchester: Southern Cemetery, Barlow Moor Road, Chorlton, Manchester M21 7GL (tel 0161 881 2208). Plot (50 years) incl. digging and burial £815 (£1,255 for non-residents). They will accept home-made coffins; or shrouds in the Muslim section. Length of funeral service: 20 minutes in chapel. Chapel: 'Victorian Gothic.'' Grounds: '168-acre site with listed buildings and a great variety of trees and shrubs.' Memorials: A rule booklet of 56 pages. Articles it prohibits on graves include wooden crosses ('except those supplied by the city council'), sea shells, rockery and other stones. Those bringing the coffin to the cemetery in other than a funeral director's hearse must transfer it at the entrance gate to a wheeled bier. Not unreasonably, it also wants to be notified if the coffin size will exceed 6' 4" by 22" width, 15" depth. (The width measurement must allow for any protruding handles. 'It is difficult and may be dangerous to alter the width of the grave once it has been excavated.') 'We will give advice on coffins or anything relating to the cemetery. We pride ourselves on being experienced in all manner of problems associated with burial - and how to solve them!' There is a woodland burial area planned - see The Natural Death Centre's list of Woodland Burial Sites for details (Paul Burton).

  • Crem Manchester: Barlow Moor Road Crematorium, Chorlton, Manchester M21 7GZ (tel 0161 881 5269), run by the Manchester Crematorium Ltd. Price: £190 (organist or music £12 extra) for 30 minutes in the mornings; or £225 for 40 minutes in the afternoons (extra time can be booked for £77 per half hour). They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins. Chapels: 'One Romanesque chapel is from the late 19th century and seats 108; the other is a modern one from the late 1950s and seats 60.' Grounds: 'In the suburbs of Manchester with a 168-acre cemetery next door.' 'Families are treated as individually as possible' (Andrew Paul Helsby).

  • Crem Manchester: Howe Bridge Crematorium, Lovers Lane, Atherton, Manchester M46 OPZ (tel 01942 870811); run by Crematoria Management Ltd. Price: £235. Time allotted: 30 minutes. They will accept home-made or cardboard coffins. Chapel: 'Modern, natural building materials used.' Grounds: 'Open countryside' (P. J. Wilson).

  • Cem Padiham: Padiham Public Cemetery, St. John's Road, Padiham, Lancashire (tel 01282 425011 or 01282 664602); run by Burnley Borough Council. Grounds: 'No adjacent dwellings.' All other details as for Burnley Cemetery (above) to whom any correspondence should be addressed.

  • Cem Poulton-le-Fylde: Fleetwood Cemetery, Beach Road, Fleetwood, Lancashire (tel 01253 891000 ext 662; e-mail: envserv@wyre6c.gov.uk); run by Wyre Borough Council, from Cemetery Office, Wyre Civic Centre, Breck Road, Poulton-le-Fylde, Lancashire FY6 7PU. Plot (50 years) incl. digging and burial £397-10 (double for non-residents). They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins and body bags or shrouds. Time for service: Unlimited. There is no chapel. Grounds: 'Well kept and tidy.' Memorials: 'Memorials must be limited to lawn types; however, the Council will view and consider any other choice of memorial.' 'The constant concern is to try to honour and meet our customer's needs at all times, at a realistic price, with a realistic attitude' (Sonia Neighbour).

  • Cem Poulton-le-Fylde: Poulton New Cemetery, Garstang Road East, Poulton-le-Fylde, Lancashire (tel 01253 891000 ext 662; e-mail: envserv@wyre6c.gov.uk). Chapel: 'Quaint and simple ' Grounds: 'Well kept, surrounded by trees.' Memorials: 'Memorials must be limited to lawn types; however, the Council will view and consider any other choice of memorial requested by the bereaved.' Other details as for Poulton-le-Fylde above.

  • Cem Preesall: Preesall Cemetery, Cemetery Lane, Preesall, Lancashire (tel 01253 891000 ext 662; e-mail: envserv@wyre6c.gov.uk). Plot (50 years) incl. digging and burial £397-10 (double for non-residents). They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins and body bags or shrouds. There is no chapel. Details as for Poulton-le-Fylde above.

  • Cem Preston: Preston Cemetery, New Hall Lane, Preston, Lancashire PR1 4SY (tel 01772 729485); run by Preston Borough Council. Lawn cemetery plot (75 years) incl. digging and burial £588. They will accept home-made or strong cardboard coffins, 'subject to prior discussion.' Length of funeral service: Unlimited. There is no chapel. Grounds: 'Wooded and Victorian in the old cemetery (opened in 1855), bleakly formal in the new.' 'Memorials of any kind allowed, up to a standard maximum height of 4' 5".' 'We are currently adopting the Charter for the Bereaved' (Mr Martin Birch).

  • Crem Preston: Preston Crematorium, Longridge Road, Preston; run by Preston Borough Council from New Hall Lane, Preston PR1 4SY, (tel 01772 794585). Price: £214 (incl. £30 environmental surcharge). Time allotted: 30 minutes. They will accept home-made or strong cardboard coffins, 'subject to prior discussion'. Chapel: 'Seats up to 100 people.' Grounds: 'Open parkland at the front, woodlands at the rear. The crematorium was opened in 1962.' 'We are currently adopting the Charter for the Bereaved' (Mr Martin Birch).

  • Crem Southport: Southport Crematorium, Southport Road, Scarisbrick, Southport PR8 5JQ (tel 01704 533443); run by Sefton Metropolitan Borough Council. Price: £175 (£221 for non-residents). Time allotted: 30 minutes (extra time can be booked for £175). They will accept home-made or cardboard coffins. Chapel: 'Modern, airy, inter-denominational, well-maintained.' Grounds: 'Natural woodland, augmented by ericacious plantings, red squirrels, pheasants, woodpeckers, jays, etc.' 'Our greatest asset has to be our surroundings. Our peat soil provides a magnificent display of rhododendrons and azaleas in May and June and the red squirrel feeding programme has ensured the survival of a healthy colony. They are a delight and comfort to the bereaved' (Carole Sheehan).

  • Cem Stockport: Highfield Cemetery, Highfield Avenue, Bredbury, Stockport; run by Stockport Metropolitan Borough Council, from the Stockport Crematorium, 31a Buxton Road, Heaviley, Stockport SK2 6LS (tel 0161 480 5221; fax 0161 480 6992). Plot (75 years) incl. digging and burial £675 (double for non-residents). They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins. Length of funeral service: 45 minutes (extra time can be booked for £55). No chapel. Grounds: 'Wide open, rural aspect, no houses visible nearby.' Memorials: 'Height restriction of 3', restrictions on materials - stone or ceramics.' 'The cemetery is adjacent to Goyt Valley and has fine views, with woods nearby' (N. Buckley).

  • Crem Stockport: Stockport Crematorium, 31a Buxton Road, Heaviley, Stockport SK2 6LS (tel 0161 480 5221; fax 0161 480 6992); run by Stockport Metropolitan Borough Council. Price: £225. Time allotted: 30 minutes (extra time can be booked for £55 per half hour; £55 surcharge Saturdays; burial chapel available for 45 minutes at basic price). They will accept cardboard 'and other green' coffins. Chapel: 'Built in 1934 in dark brick, in a simple Byzantine style; has a ramped entrance and loop system.' Grounds: 'Crematorium surrounded by walled Gardens of Remembrance.' 'Staff at the crematorium are very flexible and helpful' (N. Buckley).

  • Cem Tyldesley: Tyldesley Cemetery, Hough Lane, Tyldesley, Lancashire. Other details as for Leigh Cemetery above.

  • Cem Whitehaven: Whitehaven Cemetery, Low Road, Whitehaven, Cumbria (tel 01946 692329). They also administer Hensingham, Netherwasdale, Millom and St John's Beckermet Cemeteries. Plot (50 years) incl. digging and burial £461 (£112-75 extra for non-residents). They will accept home-made or cardboard coffins. No chapel. Grounds: 'Natural woodland setting.' Memorials: 'Within size restrictions.' 'Reasonably priced and well maintained' (Mr S. J. Benn).

  • Cem Wigan (1): Gidlow Cemetery, Wigan Road, Standish, Wigan. Other details as for Leigh Cemetery above.

  • Cem Wigan (2): Ince-in-Makerfield Cemetery, Warrington Road, Lower Ince, Wigan. Other details as for Leigh Cemetery above.

  • Cem Wigan (3): Westwood Cemetery, Westwood Lane, Lower Ince, Wigan. Other details as for Leigh Cemetery above.

  • Cem Wigan (4): Wigan Cemetery, Cemetery Road, Lower Ince, Wigan, (tel 01942 866455). Other details as for Leigh Cemetery above.

  • Crem Wigan: Wigan Crematorium, Cemetery Road, Lower Ince, Wigan (tel 01942 866455). Price: £175. Time allotted: 30 minutes (extra time can be booked without charge). They will accept home-made or cardboard coffins. Chapel: 'Church-like, converted from a nonconformist cemetery chapel.' Grounds: 'Cemetery with Gardens of Remembrance.' 'We would assist with any part of a funeral arrangement or provide any assistance to a bereaved family' (Anthony Bassett).

  • Cem Wilmslow: Wilmslow Cemetery, Manchester Road, Wilmslow SK9 2LE; run by the Macclesfield Borough Council, from Macclesfield Cemetery, Prestbury Road, Macclesfield, SK10 3BU (tel 01625 422330 or 422408 or 504511). Plot (100 years) incl. digging and burial £487 (double for non-residents). They will accept cardboard or wicker coffins. Length of funeral service: 20 minutes (extra time can be booked for £52). Chapel: 'Victorian chapel with space heating.' Memorials: 'Lawn-type memorials only, with size restrictions' (John J. Thomas).

    North East

    Comprising Northumberland, Newcastle-Upon-Tyne, North Tyneside, Gateshead, South Tyneside, Sunderland, Durham, Hartlepool, Stockton-On-Tees, Middlesbrough, Redcar, North Yorkshire, York, East Riding of Yorkshire, Kingston-Upon-Hull, Bradford, Leeds, Calderdale, Kirklees, Wakefield, Barnsley, Sheffield, Rotherham, Doncaster, North Lincolnshire, North East Lincolnshire and Lincolnshire.

  • Cem Barnsley: Barnsley Cemetery, Cemetery Road, Barnsley; run by Denis Rhodes, Bereavement Services Manager, Barnsley Metropolitan Borough Council, Barnsley Crematorium, Doncaster Road, Barnsley S71 5EH (tel 01226 206053). The council also runs: Ardsley Cemetery, Hunningley Lane; Bolton Cemetery, Furlong Road; Brierly Cemetery, Church Street; Carlton Cemetery, Royston Lane; Cudworth Cemetery, Church View; Darfield Cemetery, Saltesbrook Road; Dodworth Cemetery, Green Road; Elsecar Cemetery, Church Street; Great Houghton Cemetery, Park Lane; Grimethorpe Cemetery, Cemetery Road; Hemingfield/Jump Cemetery, Cemetery Road; Hoyland Cemetery, Kirk Balk; Monk Bretton Cemetery, Cross Street; Penistone Cemetery, Thurlstone Road; Royston Cemetery, New Street; Silkstone Cemetery, Cone Lane; Thurgoland Cemetery, Halifax Road; Thurnscoe Cemetery, Southfield Lane; and Wombwell Cemetery, Cemetery Road . Plot (99 years) incl. digging and burial from £629. They will accept cardboard coffins. Length of funeral service: 30 minutes. No chapel. Memorials: 'There are restrictions as to size and offensive wording is not allowed' (Denis Rhodes).

  • Crem Barnsley: Barnsley Crematorium, Doncaster Road, Ardsley, Barnsley S71 5EH (tel 01226 206053). Price: £242. Time allotted: 30 minutes (extra time can be booked for £91). They will accept coffins approved by the FBCA (see the FBCA anti-pollution requirements in Chapter 4). A member of the public reports that 'they do accept cardboard coffins but seem to prefer chipboard ones, available cheaply locally.' Chapel: 'A mature building built in 1963.' Grounds: 'Peaceful and quiet garden.' 'A service that meets the changing demands of this sensitive subject' (Denis Rhodes).

  • Cem Barrow-on-Humber: Barrow-on-Humber Cemetery, North Lincolnshire (tel 01724 280289). (All correspondence to Scunthorpe Woodlands Memorial Park address below). No chapel. Grounds: 'A tranquil cemetery with farmland on 2 sides and screened on one side by a belt of mixed trees.' Memorials: 'Headstones, without kerbing, within size restrictions.' All other details as for Cem Scunthorpe (1) below.

  • Cem Barton-upon-Humber: Barton-upon-Humber Cemetery, Barrow Road, Barton-upon-Humber, North Lincolnshire (tel 01724 280289). (All correspondence to Scunthorpe Woodlands Memorial Park address below.) No chapel. Grounds: 'With farmland on two sides and a fine view across to the Humber Bridge and estuary.' Memorials: 'Headstones, without kerbing, within size restrictions.' All other details as for Cem Scunthorpe (1) below.

  • Cem Boston: Boston Cemetery, Horncastle Road, Boston, Lincolnshire (vehicular access Marian Road only) (tel 01205 364612); run by the Boston Borough Council. Plot (100 years) incl. digging and burial £480 (£52 extra for non-residents). Maintenance: From £17 (grass only) to £56 (with plants) per annum. They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins. Length of funeral service: '30 minutes between starts (extra time £100).' Chapel: 'Comfortable 1960s crematorium chapel, with live organ and central heating.' Grounds: 'The original 1850s part is managed for wildlife and is particularly attractive with spring bulbs. There are many varied, mature species of trees.' Memorials: 'No restrictions on kerb sections. The usual restrictions apply to the lawn sections and the cremated remains section.' They have adopted the Charter for the Bereaved. A woodland burial ground is planned - see The Natural Death Centre's list of Woodland Burial Sites for details. 'We are not too restrictive and try to help rather than hinder, whilst balancing this with common sense. The cemetery is a green haven not far from the town centre' (Martin Potts).

  • Crem Boston: Boston Crematorium, Marian Road, Boston, Lincolnshire PE21 9HA (tel 01205 364612). Price: £187. Time allotted: 25 minutes within a 30 minute period. They will accept home-made or cardboard coffins (must be identified). Chapel: 'Removable Christian symbols'. Grounds: 'Extensive lawns with many trees and formal rosebeds.' 'Our attitude is friendly, and the ambience inviting' (Martin Potts).

  • Cem Bradford: Scholemoor Cemetery, Necropolis Road, Bradford BD7 2PS (tel 01274 571313). Plot (100 years) incl. digging and burial £316. They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins and body bags or shrouds. Length of funeral service: No limit. Chapel: As crematorium below. Grounds: 'Maintained to a high standard.' 'Our highly trained staff are committed to delivering a sensitive service to meet the needs of the service user' (David Congreve). They also have a woodland burial area within their Thornton branch cemetery (see The Natural Death Centre's list of Woodland Burial Sites for details).

  • Crem Bradford: Scholemoor Crematorium, Scholemoor Cemetery, Necropolis Road, Bradford BD7 2PS (tel 01274 571313). Price: £220. Time allotted: 30 minutes (extra time can be booked without charge). They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins, or shrouds or body bags. Chapel: 'Non-denominational, converted Victorian chapel.' Grounds: 'Well-maintained grounds.' 'Caring, helpful staff' (David Congreve).

  • Cem Brigg: Brigg Cemetery, Wrawby Road, Brigg, North Lincolnshire (tel 01724 280289). (All correspondence to Scunthorpe Woodlands Memorial Park address below.) No chapel. Grounds: 'On the edge of a pleasant market town, includes an older section with traditional memorials.' Memorials: 'Headstones, without kerbing, within size restrictions.' All other details as for Cem Scunthorpe (1) below.

  • Crem Durham: Central Durham Crematorium, South Road, Durham, County Durham DH1 3TQ (tel 0191 3848677). Price: £165 (£245 non-residents). Time allotted: 30 minutes (extra time can be booked for £20 per half hour). They will accept home-made or cardboard coffins. Chapel: 'Modern, non-denominational.' Grounds: 'Open parkland with distant views.' 'Our service is dignified and fitting to the needs of individual families. We are happy to arrange any music (within reason) and have recently hosted jazz bands, trumpet solos, etc at services' (Mr Alan S. M. Jose).

  • Crem Great Grimsby: Great Grimsby Crematorium, Weelsby Avenue, Great Grimsby, North East Lincolnshire DN32 0BA (tel 01472 324868). Price: £220 (£243-50 non-residents). Time allotted: 30 minutes (extra time could possibly be arranged). They will accept home-made or cardboard coffins. 'Only 2 or 3 members of the immediate family permitted to witness coffin entering the cremator, but by prior arrangement.' Chapel: '1950s.' Grounds: 'Attractive landscaped grounds with a memorial garden.' 'We are keen to work closely with the public and have recently been promoting environmentally-friendly coffins and independent funerals' (Mrs Glenis Clover).

  • Crem Harrogate: Harrogate Crematorium, Stonefall Cemetery, Wetherby Road, Harrogate, North Yorkshire HG3 1DE (tel 01423 883523). Price: £253. Time allotted: 20 minutes within 40 minute period (extra time can be booked for £8). They will accept home-made or cardboard coffins, or others if recommended by FBCA. Chapel: 'Church-like.' Grounds: 'In a well-maintained, traditional cemetery setting'. 'We are in the process of adopting the Charter for the Bereaved.' 'We recognise that bereaved people have differing needs and we accommodate these wherever possible' (Philip Andrew).

  • *** Cem Hexham: St Andrews Cemetery, West Road, Hexham, Northumberland (tel 077100 53732). Plot (99 years) incl. digging and burial £229 (double for non-residents). They will accept cardboard coffins. Length of funeral service: 'As required.' Chapel: 'Victorian.' Grounds: 'In the beautiful Tyne valley with no residential developments nearby' (John Thirwell). For details of their woodland burial area, see The Natural Death Centre's list of Woodland Burial Sites. Winner of the New Natural Death Handbook Award 2000 for the Best Cemetery in the North East.

  • Cem Houghton-le-Spring: Easington Lane Cemetery, Murton Lane, Easington Lane, Houghton-le-Spring, Tyne and Wear (tel 0191 553 1687); run by the City of Sunderland. Plot (99 years) incl. digging and burial £494 (double for non-residents). They will accept cardboard coffins. Length of funeral service: 30 minutes. No chapel. Grounds: 'Small cemetery in a rural area' (John Blyth). They have adopted the Charter for the Bereaved and offer a useful guide for those planning funerals without funeral directors.

  • Cem Houghton-le-Spring: Hetton Cemetery, Houghton Road, Hetton-le-Hole, Houghton-le-Spring, Tyne and Wear (tel 0191 553 1687); run by the City of Sunderland Council. Plot (99 years) incl. digging and burial £494 (double for non-residents). They will accept cardboard coffins. Length of funeral service: 30 minutes. No chapel. Grounds: 'Small cemetery in a rural area.' They have adopted the Charter for the Bereaved and offer a useful guide for those planning funerals without funeral directors (John Blyth).

  • Cem Houghton-le-Spring: Houghton Cemetery, Durham Road, Houghton-le-Spring, Tyne and Wear (tel 0191 553 1687); run by the City of Sunderland Council. Plot (99 years) incl. digging and burial £494 (double for non-residents). They will accept cardboard coffins. Length of funeral service: 30 minutes. No chapel. They have adopted the Charter for the Bereaved and offer a useful guide for those planning funerals without funeral directors (John Blyth).

  • Crem Hull: Chanterlands Crematorium, Chanterlands Avenue, Hull (tel 01482 614976); run by Kingston upon Hull City Council. Price: £283. Time allotted: 40 minutes (extra time can be booked by appointment without charge). They will accept cardboard coffins. Chapel: 'Two modern chapels, one with 30 seats, the other with 120 seats (and an upper balcony for extra capacity)'. Grounds: '23 acres of landscaped grounds. There is a long attractive drive lined with rose bushes' (Terence M. Boulton).

  • Cem Keighley: Utley Cemetery, Skipton Road, Keighley, Bradford BD20 6EJ (tel 01535 643263). Plot (100 years) incl. digging and burial £316. They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins and body bags or shrouds. Length of funeral service: No limit. No chapel. Grounds: 'Maintained to a high standard.' 'Our highly trained staff are committed to delivering a sensitive service to meet the needs of the service user' (David Congreve).

  • Crem Keighley: Oakworth Crematorium, Wide Lane, Oakworth, Keighley, Bradford BD22 0RJ (tel 01535 643263). Price: £220. Time allotted: 30 minutes (extra time can be booked without charge). They will accept home-made, wicker or cardboard coffins and body bags or shrouds. Chapel: 'Non-denominational, converted Victorian chapel.' Grounds: 'Well-maintained countryside.' 'Caring, helpful staff' (David Congreve and J Elsbury).

  • Cem Leeds: Lawnswood Cemetery, Otley Road, Adel, Leeds LS16 6AH (0113 2673188). Plot for two people (50 years) incl. digging and burial £630 (£1260 for non-residents). They will accept home-made or cardboard coffins. Length of funeral service: 30 minutes. Chapel: 'Dark stone, built in the late 19th century, with seating for 80 people.' Grounds: 'An historic 20-acre cemetery with beautiful old memorials' (Phil Stephenson).

  • Crem Leeds: Leeds City Council Cemeteries and Crematoria Section, Otley Road, Adel, Leeds LS16 6AH (0113 2673188). Price: £245. Time allotted: 30 minutes (extra time can be booked for £104). They will accept home-made or cardboard coffins. Chapel: 'Church-like, with seating for 80 people.' Grounds: 'A mix of formal and woodland areas' (Phil Stephenson).

  • Cem Middlesbrough: Acklam Cemetery, Acklam Road, Acklam, Middlesbrough, TS5 7HE. All correspondence to this address. Price: £230 (double for non-residents). Grounds: 'Adjacent to crematorium, open space and Botanic Centre, with views of Cleveland Hills.' Chapel: 'Use of two chapels at adjacent crematorium; both seat 80. One is from the 1960s, with central altar and no windows; the other from the 1980s, with lots of glass' (P. Gitsham). Other details as for Middlesbrough Thorntree Cemeteries below. (For the woodland burial area details see The Natural Death Centre's list of Woodland Burial Sites.)

  • Cem Middlesbrough: Linthorpe Cemetery, Burlam Road, Middlesbrough. Grounds: '52 acres with heavily wooded older areas and a nature conservation area'. There is no chapel. 'A Friends Group has been formed, which arranges walks and talks on the cemetery's history and wildlife' (P. Gitsham). Other details as for Middlesbrough Thorntree Cemeteries below.

  • Cem Middlesbrough: Thorntree and Thorntree RC Cemeteries, Cargo Fleet Lane, Thorntree, Middlesbrough (tel 01642 817725). Plot (50 years) incl. digging and burial £230 (£460 for non-residents). They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins and will consider body bags or shrouds. Length of funeral service: Up to 60 minutes. Chapel: 'Seats 30 to 40, 1930s style.' Memorials: 'Natural quarried stones or wooden crosses to Council specifications' (P. Gitsham).

  • Crem Middlesbrough: Teeside Crematorium, Acklam Road, Acklam, Middlesbrough, TS5 7HE (01642 817725); run by the Middlesbrough Borough Council. Price: £254. Time allotted: 30 minutes (extra time can be booked for £52). They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins and 'may consider body bags or shrouds.' Chapels: 'One was built in 1961, with a very high ceiling, seating 80; the other is more modern, with a lot of glass windows, light and airy, seating about 100.' Grounds: 'Shrubberies and lawn with views of Cleveland Hills.' They have adopted the Charter for the Bereaved (P. Gitsham).

  • Crem Newcastle-upon-Tyne: West Road Crematorium, West Road, Newcastle-upon-Tyne (tel 0191 2744 737); run by Newcastle City Council. Price: £237. Time allotted: 30 minutes (extra time can be booked for £56). They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins and body bags or shrouds. Chapel: 'Very simple and traditional.' Grounds: 'Well-kept gardens.' They will have adopted the Charter for the Bereaved by the end of 2000. 'All family requests by way of music, etc are accommodated whenever possible' (Tracey Harrison).

  • Crem North Shields: North Shields Crematorium, Walton Avenue, North Shields, North Tyneside (tel 0191 2005861); run by North Tyneside Council. Price: £243-50. Time allotted: 30 minutes (30 minutes extra time can be booked for £35). They will accept home-made or cardboard coffins and all other types would be considered by the registrar. Chapel: 'Church-like, with removable crosses and seating for 60 people.' Grounds: 'Heavily wooded, older part of mature cemetery - one part is a conservation area.' They have adopted the Charter for the Bereaved. 'Very attractive mature woodland surroundings' (Mr Jim Sinley).

  • Cem Scawby: Scawby Cemetery, Scawby, North Lincolnshire (tel 01724 280289). (All correspondence to Scunthorpe Woodlands Memorial Park address below.) No Chapel. Grounds: 'Tranquil, natural setting in open farmland.' Memorials: Headstones, without kerbing, within size restrictions. All other details as for Cem Scunthorpe (1) below.

  • Cem Scunthorpe: Crosby Cemetery, Ferry Road, Scunthorpe, North Lincolnshire (tel 01724 280289). (All correspondence to Scunthorpe Woodlands Memorial Park address below.) No chapel. Grounds: 'An old cemetery with traditional memorials.' Memorials: 'Headstones, without kerbing, within size restrictions.' All other details as for Cem Scunthorpe (1) below.

  • Cem Scunthorpe (1): Woodlands Memorial Park Cemetery, Brumby Wood Lane, Scunthorpe, North Lincolnshire DN17 1SP (tel 01724 280289; e-mail: jack.startin@northlincs.gov.uk). Administers Brumby, Barrow-upon-Humber, Barton-upon-Humber, Winterton, Brigg, Scawby and Crosby branch cemeteries. Plot (50 years) incl. digging and burial £550. They will accept home-made or cardboard coffins. Length of funeral service: 20 minutes (extra time can be booked for £30). Chapel: See below. Grounds: See below. Memorials: 'No headstones in Sections A and B; only bronze plaques set at an angle, off the ground, in a garden border. Headstones and kerbing permitted in other sections.' There are also plots for cremated remains. They have adopted the Charter for the Bereaved. 'Every effort is made to accommodate the wishes of the deceased and family' (Jack Startin).

  • Cem Scunthorpe (2): Brumby Cemetery, Cemetery Road, Scunthorpe, North Lincolnshire (tel 01724 280289). (All correspondence to Scunthorpe Woodlands Memorial Park address below.) No Chapel. Grounds: 'An old cemetery with a mix of traditional kerbs and headstones, plus a lawn section set amongst birch trees.' Memorials: 'Stone headstones, without kerbing, within size restrictions.' All other details as for Cem Scunthorpe (1) above.

  • *** Crem Scunthorpe: Woodlands Crematorium, Woodlands Memorial Park, Brumby Wood Lane, Scunthorpe, North Lincolnshire DN17 1SP (tel 01724 280289; e-mail: jack.startin@northlincs.gov.uk). Price: £220 (£250 for non-residents). Time allotted: 20 minutes within a 30 minute period (extra time can be booked for £15). They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins and body bags or shrouds. Chapel: 'Light and airy, the upper portion in glass, with a non-denominational stained glass window.' Grounds: 'Shrubberies, specimen trees and avenues creating long vistas across close-mown lawns.' They have adopted the Charter for the Bereaved. 'We strive to provide an excellent service to all our customers and to help them have the funeral of their choice. We have an open door policy, and the public may visit without prior booking for a guided tour' (Jack Startin). Winner of the New Natural Death Handbook Award 2000 for the Best Crematorium in the North East.

  • Cem Shipley: Nab Wood Cemetery, Bingley Road, Shipley, Bradford BD18 4EW. Plot (100 years) incl. digging and burial £316. They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins and body bags or shrouds. Length of funeral service: Open. Chapel: As crematorium below. Grounds: 'Maintained to a high standard.' 'Highly trained staff are committed to delivering a sensitive service to meet the needs of the service user' (David Congreve).

  • Crem Shipley: Nab Wood Crematorium, Bingley Road, Shipley, Bradford BD18 4BG (tel 01274 584109). Price: £220. Time allotted: 30 minutes (extra time can be booked without charge). They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins and shrouds or body bags. Chapel: Non-denominational, converted Victorian chapel. Grounds: 'Well-maintained grounds.' 'Caring, helpful staff' (David Congreve).

  • Cem Sunderland: Bishopwearmouth Cemetery, Chester Road, Sunderland SR4 5SU (tel 0191 553 1687); run by the City of Sunderland. Plot (99 years) incl. digging and burial £494 (double for non-residents). They will accept cardboard coffins. Length of funeral service: 30 minutes. Chapel: '1850s building, small and quite pleasant.' Memorials: 'Currently restricted to lawn memorials, although it is intended to make traditional graves available in the future.' They have adopted the Charter for the Bereaved and offer a useful guide for those planning funerals without funeral directors. 'A very large cemetery of 88 acres, dating from 1856' (John Blyth).

  • Cem Sunderland: Castletown Cemetery, Hylton Castle Road, Castletown, Sunderland (tel 0191 553 1687); run by the City of Sunderland. Plot (99 years) incl. digging and burial £494 (double for non-residents). They will accept cardboard coffins. Length of funeral service: 30 minutes. No chapel. They have adopted the Charter for the Bereaved and offer a useful guide for those planning funerals without funeral directors. 'Small, pleasant, well-tended cemetery' (John Blyth).

  • Cem Sunderland: Mere Knolls Cemetery, Torver Crescent, Fulwell, Sunderland (tel 0191 553 1687); run by the City of Sunderland. Plot (99 years) incl. digging and burial £494 (double for non-residents). They will accept cardboard coffins. Length of funeral service: 30 minutes. Chapel: 'Victorian, in reasonable condition, fairly pleasant.' Grounds: 'Coastal location, next to the resort of Seaburn.' Memorials: 'Currently restricted to lawn memorials, although it is intended to make traditional graves available in the future'. They have adopted the Charter for the Bereaved and offer a useful guide for those planning funerals without funeral directors. 'Seaside setting. Established 1956. Mature trees along a stream at the northern boundary. A meadow area is under consideration' (John Blyth).

  • Cem Sunderland: Sunderland (Grangetown) Cemetery, Ryhope Road, Grangetown, Sunderland (tel 0191 553 1687); run by the City of Sunderland. Plot (99 years) incl. digging and burial £494 (double for non-residents). They will accept cardboard coffins. Length of funeral service: 30 minutes. Chapel: 'Victorian building, quite basic' (John Blyth). They have adopted the Charter for the Bereaved and offer a useful guide for those planning funerals without funeral directors.

  • Cem Sunderland: Ryhope Cemetery, Burdon Lane, Ryhope, Sunderland (tel 0191 553 1687); run by the City of Sunderland. Plot (99 years) incl. digging and burial £494 (double for non-residents). They will accept cardboard coffins. Length of funeral service: 30 minutes. No chapel. Grounds: 'Small established cemetery situated in a conservation area' (John Blyth). They have adopted the Charter for the Bereaved and offer a useful guide for those planning funerals without funeral directors.

  • Cem Sunderland: Southwick Cemetery, Wembley Road, Witherwack, Sunderland (tel 0191 553 1687); run by the City of Sunderland. Plot (99 years) incl. digging and burial £494 (double for non-residents). They will accept cardboard coffins. Length of funeral service: 30 minutes. Chapel: 'Very basic, seldom used.' They have adopted the Charter for the Bereaved and offer a useful guide for those planning funerals without funeral directors (John Blyth).

  • Crem Sunderland: Sunderland Crematorium, Chester Road, Sunderland SR4 5SU (tel 0191 5531687). Price: £211 (£69 extra for non-residents). Time allotted: 30 minutes. They will accept home-made or cardboard coffins. Chapels: '1950s design with a fixed catafalque.' Grounds: 'Well-tended grounds, with a small garden of remembrance, adjoining a large cemetery.' They have adopted the Charter for the Bereaved and offer a useful guide for those planning funerals without funeral directors. 'We offer a high quality and flexible service' (John Blyth).

  • Cem Washington: Washington Cemetery, Glebe Crescent, Washington Village, Tyne and Wear (tel 0191 553 1687); run by the City of Sunderland. Plot (99 years) incl. digging and burial £494 (double for non-residents). They will accept cardboard coffins. Length of funeral service: 30 minutes. Chapel: '1850s building, small and quite pleasant.' Grounds: 'Small established cemetery situated in a conservation area.' Memorials: 'Currently restricted to lawn memorials, although it is intended to make traditional graves available in the future' (John Blyth). They have adopted the Charter for the Bereaved and offer a useful guide for those planning funerals without funeral directors.

  • Crem Whitley Bay: Whitley Bay Crematorium, Blyth Road, Whitley Bay, North Tyneside (tel 0191 200 8658); run by North Tyneside Council. Price: £243-50. Time allotted: 30 minutes (extra time can be booked for £35). They will accept home-made or cardboard coffins; the acceptance of other types of coffins (wicker coffins and body bags or shrouds) would be at the discretion of the registrar. Chapel: 'Converted church with very attractive domed ceiling, seating for about 60 people. Removable cross.' Grounds: 'Mature cemetery, off a very attractive main drive lined with memorial seats.' They have adopted the Charter for the Bereaved (Jim Sinley).

  • Cem Winterton: Winterton Cemetery, Cemetery Road, Winterton, North Lincolnshire (tel 01724 280289). (All correspondence to Woodlands Memorial Park address above). No Chapel. Grounds: 'Tranquil cemetery alongside farmland. A Garden of Remembrance for the scattering of cremated remains.' Memorials: 'Headstones, without kerbing, within size restrictions.' All other details as for Cem Scunthorpe (1) above.

  • Cem York: York Cemetery, The Gatehouse, Cemetery Road, York YO1 5AJ (tel 01904 610578 day). 'We will take any body container from body bag to home-made coffin, as long as it is all done with dignity.' Plot (99 years) incl. digging and burial £620. Maintenance: £30 p.a. A tree or bulbs can be planted at the request of relatives (with the cost varying, depending on the requirements). Chapel: 'A very fine Grade IIA listed classical chapel, prizewinning decoration, warm feel.' Time for service: Up to one and a half hours if needed. Grounds: 'Formal, wild, wooded. Ecological management plan to encourage wildlife. Memorials should be large and Victorian in style.' 'This is a Victorian park landscape gone wild. There are special butterfly and scented walks and there is a great deal of educational and informal recreational use of the area. We try to put customers' wishes first and empower them so that they can be in control of their funeral' (Hugh Goudge, Warden).

  • Crem York: City of York Crematorium, Bishopthorpe Road, York YO23 2QD (tel 01904 706096; fax 01904 301569); run by City of York Council. Price: £320. Time allotted: 30 minutes (20 minutes in the chapel; extra time can be booked for £59). They will accept cardboard or wicker coffins. Chapels: 'The main chapel, built in 1962, seats 120; a second, smaller chapel seats from 15 to 20.' Grounds: 'Parkland and trees with a small garden of remembrance' (Mr Milsted).

    Wales

    Comprising Flintshire, Wrexham, Denbighshire, Aberconwy and Colwyn, Anglesey, Caernarfonshire and Merionethshire, Powys, Cardiganshire, Pembrokeshire, Carmarthenshire, Swansea, Neath and Port Talbot, Bridgend, Rhondda Cynon Taff, Vale of Glamorgan, Merthyr Tydfil, Caerphilly, Cardiff, Blaenau Gwent, Torfaen, Newport, Monmouthshire.

  • *** Crem Aberdare: Llwydcoed Crematorium, Aberdare, Mid Glamorgan, Wales CF44 0DJ (tel 01685 874115; web: www.yell.co.uk/sites/llwydcoedcrematorium; e-mail via 'Contact Us' at website). Price: £160. Time allotted: 25 minutes within a 40 minute period (extra time can be booked without charge). They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins. Chapels: 'The award-winning building fits particularly well into the rural landscape and is in sympathy with the vernacular architecture of the area. Capel Mair seats 120, Capel Tydfil 50.' Grounds: 'Landscaped with trees, shrubs and ornamental pools, and the gardens provide a haven for quiet contemplation in tranquil surroundings.' Llwyncoed stock the Compakta coffin, Ecology Peace coffin and Woodgrain Eco-coffin, and provide a leaflet for those organising cremations themselves (which they have carefully researched, for instance: 'Enquiries have been made at local hospitals and we are informed that the body will be dressed in a shroud and placed in the coffin by mortuary staff. A copy of the Authority for Removal of a Body from the mortuary of local hospitals is attached'). They have adopted the Charter for the Bereaved. 'We try to cater for all needs as far as possible' (Clive G. Lewis). Winner of the New Natural Death Handbook Award 2000 for the Best Crematorium in Wales.

  • Crem Aberystwyth: Aberystwyth Crematorium, Clarach Road, Aberystwyth, Cardiganshire, Wales SY23 3DG (tel 01970 626 942). Run by the Crematoria Investment Company. Price: £250. Time allotted: 60 minutes (extra time can be booked without charge). They will accept home-made or cardboard coffins. Chapel: 'Modern, with a large window overlooking Cynfelyn Valley. Comfortable furnishings.' Grounds: 'A wooded hillside above the beautiful and peaceful Cynfelyn Valley. The Garden of Remembrance is a rare orchid site, and the sea is visible from parts of the grounds' (P. J. Wilson).

  • Cem Anglesey: Lon Newydd Cemetery, Lon Newydd, Llangefni, Anglesey, Wales LL77 7TW (tel 01248 723 332); run by the Llangefni Town Council. Plot ('perpetuity') incl. digging and burial £118 (double for non-residents). No maintenance costs. 'No time limit for service.' Re cardboard or unusual coffins: 'Our council would have to decide on a policy on such matters.' Chapel: 'Small, Victorian, nonconformist, well-constructed of local stone.' Grounds: 'Opened in 1867, the cemetery occupies a central position in town. The number buried stands at 2,630.' Memorials: 'Headstone limited to 3' in height, 2' 6" in width.' 'The neat cemetery is a matter of pride to the workers, council and local inhabitants. Our prices are quite low compared to other nearby cemeteries' (M. T. Jones).

  • Crem Bridgend: Coychurch Crematorium, Coychurch, Bridgend, Wales CF35 6AB (tel 01656 656605); run by Bridgend County Borough Council. Price: £186-30. Time allotted: 30 minutes (extra time can be booked for £41). They will accept home-made or cardboard or wicker coffins. Chapel: 'The main chapel is a Christian chapel with a wooden ceiling and a catafalque of black slate and solid wooden pews; the secondary inter-denominational chapel is built of stone and wood, sheeted both internally and externally with cedar wood. It has a floor of patterned brick and is roofed in copper. The crematorium is built of natural stone taken from old demolished buildings in the area.' Grounds: 'The crematorium is set on a rolling hillside on the dividing line between open countryside and ancient woodland. The grounds extend to 29 acres, of which 15 acres are woodland, within which the car parks are screened. A beautiful natural lake adjoins the main chapel entrance canopy.' 'The tranquil setting coupled with a highly trained and motivated team of staff provides a truly sympathetic environment' (Joanna Hamilton).

  • Crem Cardiff: City of Cardiff Crematorium, Thornhill Road, Llanishen, Cardiff, Wales CF4 5LA (tel 029 206 23294; fax 029 206 92904). Price: £245.25 (non-residents £425); run by Cardiff County Council. Time allotted: 20 minutes in the Wenalt chapel ('additional 20 minutes at no further cost - simply request this when booking') and 50 minutes in the Briwant chapel. They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins, or shrouds or body bags. Chapels: 'There are two chapels in use, the large Wenalt chapel and the smaller Briwant chapel (seating up to 50).' Grounds: 'Formal gardens, informal woods.' They have adopted the Charter for the Bereaved. 'We make every effort to meet the bereaved to ensure they are fully advised rather than relying on the funeral director's "advice" ' (Roger Swan).

  • Cem Mold: Mold Public Cemetery, Alexandra Road, Mold, Flintshire, Wales CH7 1HJ (tel 01352 753820). Plot incl. digging and burial £250. No time limit for the service. No chapel. Grounds: 'This is the town cemetery with flower borders and trees, surrounded by a football field and playing ground.' Memorials: 'To be made of stone with reverent wording.' 'Friendly management. Family mourners often lower the coffin. The cemetery won a best-kept cemetery award in 1993' (Arfon Llyod Williams-Cooke).

  • Crem Narberth: Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth, Pembrokeshire, Wales SA6Y 8UD (tel 01834 860622; e-mail: parcgwyn@hotmail.com). Price: £190 incl. organists' fee. Time allotted: 20 minutes (extra time can be booked without charge). They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins, or shrouds or body bags. Chapel: '1960s, removable cross.' Grounds: 'Beautifully laid out with trees, borders, etc in seven and a half acres of gently rolling countryside.' They have adopted the Charter for the Bereaved. 'A friendly service in accordance with the wishes of the bereaved' (Revd. Elwyn J. John).

  • Cem Newport: St Woolos Cemetery, Bassaleg Road, Newport NP9 3NA, South Wales (tel 01633 263864); also runs Christchurch Cemetery, Christchurch Road, Newport; and Caerleon Cemetery, Coldbath Road, Caerleon - for both these cemeteries the details are as for St Woolos. Plot (99 years) incl. digging and burial £414 (no extra for non-residents). 'One hour for services plus one hour is left between services.' No chapel in use. Grounds: 'Three old listed buildings in St Woolos and one in Christchurch.' Memorials: 'Headstone limited to 2' 8" in height, 3' in width and 8" in thickness' (N. S. Woodward).

  • Cem Penarth: Penarth Cemetery, Castle Avenue, Penarth, Wales CF64 3QY (tel 02920 700721; e-mail: townclerk@penarthtowncouncil.fsnet.co.uk). Plot (75 years) incl. digging and burial £192-15 (double for non-residents). No chapel. Grounds: 'Traditional, edge of town location but accessible; elevated position giving views over the town.' Memorials: 'Newer sections - lawn-type; older sections - traditional.' 'Well maintained. Being the local cemetery in a small town, there is a need to be responsive to local views' (Edward J. Vick).

  • Crem Port Talbot: Margam Crematorium, Longlands Lane, Margam, Port Talbot, Neath and Port Talbot, Wales SA13 2PP (tel 01639 883570). Price: £155 (no extra for non-residents). Time allotted: 30 minutes (extra time can be booked for £13). They will accept cardboard coffins. Chapel: 'Face-the-front seating.' Grounds: 'Natural woodland' (D. Hywel Selway).

  • *** Cem Wrexham: Wrexham Cemetery, Ruabon Road, Wrexham, Wales LL13 7RE (tel 01978 263159); run by Wrexham County Borough. Plot (99 years) incl. digging and burial £333 (double for non-residents). No maintenance cost. They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins. Chapel: 'Victorian gothic with spire.' Grounds: 'Preserved Victorian layout, initially described as a garden cemetery. The buildings, chapel and monuments are listed Grade II.' Memorials: 'Maximum 3' 6" height on lawn sections, any design, any colour.' 'Computerised records for family history research. Original landscape preserved. Few prescriptive regulations' (Alan McMahon). Winner of the New Natural Death Handbook Award 2000 for the Best Cemetery in Wales.

  • Crem Wrexham: Wrexham Crematorium, Pentrebychan, Wrexham, Wales LL14 4EP (tel 01978 840068); run by Wrexham County Borough. Price: £198 (£32 extra for non-residents). Time allotted: 30 minutes (extra time can be booked for £56). They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins. Chapels: 'Modern from 1960s. Glazed side wall with view of a water feature.' Grounds: 'Riverside walk, ponds, wildlife habitats, woodland. Grounds traversed by Offa's Dyke.' They have adopted the Charter for the Bereaved. 'We aim to preserve and enhance the natural beauty of the setting' (Alan McMahon).

    West Midlands

    Comprising Shropshire, Staffordshire, Wolverhampton, Walsall, Dudley, Sandwell, Birmingham, Solihull, Coventry, Hereford and Worcester, Gloucestershire.

  • *** Cem Burton-upon-Trent: Stapenhill Cemetery, 38, Stapenhill Road, Burton-upon-Trent, Staffordshire DE15 9AE (tel 01283 508572); run by East Staffordshire Borough Council. Plot (50 years) incl. digging and burial £345; £331 for a double plot (double for non-residents). They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins and body bags or shrouds. Length of funeral service: 30 minutes (extra time can be booked without charge). Chapel: 'Victorian, well-maintained, with seating for about 60 people.' Grounds: 'Attractive Victorian cemetery rich in wildlife, overlooking flood plain of River Trent.' Memorials: 'Within size restrictions.' They will have adopted the Charter for the Bereaved by the end of 2000. 'We have a children's burial area and a "forget-me-not" garden' (Nick French). For details of their woodland burial area see The Natural Death Centre's list of Woodland Burial Sites. Winner of the New Natural Death Handbook Award 2000 for the Best Cemetery in the West Midlands.

  • Crem Burton-upon-Trent: Bretby Crematorium, Geary Lane, Bretby, near Burton-upon-Trent, Staffordshire DE15 OQE (tel 01283 221505). Price: £225 (£26 extra if the organ is required). Time allotted: 45 minutes (extra time can be booked for £100). They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins and body bags or shrouds. Chapels: 'Two chapels, seating 80 and 18 respectively, in a natural and uplifting style using Columbian pine and Welsh slate.' Grounds: 'Maintained as a natural woodland and set in open countryside.' 'The Charter for the Bereaved is in the process of being adopted. The crematorium can supply two types of cardboard coffin and has a positive attitude to informing the public of the choices that are open to them. Awarded the Civic Trust Award in 1978' (Nick French).

  • Crem Cinderford: Forest of Dean Crematorium, Yew Tree Blake, Speech House Road, Cinderford, Gloucestershire GL14 3HU (tel 01594 826624). Run by Crematoria Management Ltd. Price: £240. Time allotted: 60 minutes (no charge for extra time). They will accept home-made or cardboard coffins. Chapel: 'Simple yet dignified, comfortable, views of the forest.' Grounds: 'Forest location - very attractive' (P. J. Wilson).

  • Cem Coventry: Canley Cemetery, Cemeteries and Crematorium Office, Cannon Hill Road, Canley, Coventry CV4 7DF (tel 02476 415886 or 02476 418055). Plot (75 years) incl. digging and burial £422. Maintenance: No charge. They will accept home-made or cardboard coffins, and will consider wicker coffins and body bags or shrouds. Length of funeral service: No limit at graveside. Chapels: As Crematorium below. 'A modern lawn-type layout with Garden of Rest and pond' (Mrs S. Turner).

  • Cem Coventry: London Road Cemetery, London Road, Whitley, Coventry. 'Designed by Sir Joseph Paxton and opened in 1847. 43 acres of landscaped park with many interesting features' (Mrs S. Turner). All other details as for Coventry Canley Cemetery above.

  • Cem Coventry: Lentons Lane Cemetery, Lentons Lane, Walsgrave, Coventry. 'A new cemetery opened in 1994 includes among other things a wild flower meadow and woodland burial area' (see The Natural Death Centre's list of Woodland Burial Sites for details). 'It is situated to the north of the city next to the countryside. It provides lawn and kerbs; and a Muslim section providing chamber burials' (Mrs S. Turner). All other details as for Coventry Canley Cemetery above.

  • Cem Coventry: St. Paul's Cemetery, Holbrooks Lane, Coventry. 'Traditional cemetery set in the industrial North of the city' (Mrs S. Turner). All other details as for Coventry Canley Cemetery above.

  • Cem Coventry: Windmill Road Cemetery, Windmill Road, Foleshall, Coventry. 'A small cemetery serving local people in that part of the city' (Mrs S. Turner). All other details as for Coventry Canley Cemetery above.

  • Cem Coventry: Walsgrave Cemetery, Woodway Lane, Coventry. 'Small cemetery on outskirts of the city' (Mrs S. Turner). All other details as for Coventry Canley Cemetery above.

  • Crem Coventry: Canley Crematorium, Cannon Hill Road, Canley, Coventry CV4 7DF (tel 02476 415886 or 02476 418055). Price: £237. Time allotted: 45 minutes (extra time can be booked for £57). They will accept home-made, wicker or cardboard coffins. Chapel: 'Recently modernised to provide second chapel.' Grounds: 'Three acres of Gardens of Remembrance, with rose gardens, pond, seasonal lawns and English woodland.' 'A flexible interpretation of rules and codes is always applied' (G. D. Marshall).

  • Cem Dudley: Gornal Wood Cemetery, Chase Road, Gornal Wood, Dudley DY3 2RL (tel 01384 813970); run by Dudley Metropolitan Borough, which also administers cemeteries at Stourbridge, Halesowen, Cradley, Lye and Wollescote, Brierley Hill and Dudley. Plot (75 years) incl. digging and burial £852 (double for non-residents). They will accept home-made or cardboard coffins. Length of funeral service: '30 minutes if in the chapel (which can be booked for £45).' Chapel: 'Modern, light and airy.' Grounds: 'Landscaped setting.' Memorials: 'Only restrictions as regards health and safety.' 'Helpful staff' (Liz Mansell). There is also a woodland burial area within the cemetery (see The Natural Death Centre's list of Woodland Burial Sites for details) (Liz Mansell).

  • Crem Dudley: Gornal Wood Crematorium, Chase Road, Gornal Wood, Dudley DY3 2RL (tel 01384 813970); run by Dudley Metropolitan Borough. Price: £266. Time allotted: 20 minutes at half-hourly intervals (extra time can be booked for £45). They will accept home-made or cardboard coffins. Chapel: 'Modern, light and airy.' Grounds: 'Pleasant and spacious landscaped setting; helpful staff' (Liz Mansell).

  • Crem Newcastle-under-Lyme: Bradwell Crematorium, Chatterley Close, Bradwell, Newcastle-under-Lyme, Staffordshire ST5 8LE (tel 01782 635498). Price: £285-50. Time allotted: 30 minutes (extra time can be booked without charge). They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins; they will consider body bags or shrouds. Chapel: 'Multi-denominational, timber-clad, seating about 100.' Grounds: '13 acres of themed gardens with a multitude of memorial trees and shrubs' (Steve Wells).

  • Cem Newport (Shropshire): Newport General Cemetery, Audley Avenue, Newport, Shropshire (tel 01952 814338); run by the Newport Town Council. Plot (50 years) incl. digging and burial £315 (£185 extra for non-residents). They will accept cardboard or wicker coffins and body bags or shrouds. Length of funeral service: 'As long as required.' Chapel: 'Built in 1859 in Gothic style, full restoration underway.' Memorials: 'No restrictions in the new children's burial area. In the main cemetery a maximum height of 2' 10" by 2' 6" wide.' 'There is a reserved area for Jewish burials and a separate area for other faiths' (Miss Dee Halliday). For details of their woodland burial extension, see The Natural Death Centre's list of Woodland Burial Sites.

  • Cem Redditch: Abbey Cemetery, Bordesley Lane, Redditch, Hereford and Worcester B97 5AS (tel 01527 62174; e-mail: ken.elliott@redditchbc.gov.uk); run by the Redditch Borough Council. Plot (50 years) incl. digging and burial £450 (double for non-residents). They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins and body bags or shrouds. Length of funeral service: 30 minutes (extra time can be booked for £47). Chapel: 'Naturally designed and lit, with the north-facing picture window having an overview of the countryside.' They have adopted the Charter for the Bereaved (Ken Elliott).

  • Crem Redditch: Redditch Crematorium, Bordesley Lane, Redditch, Hereford and Worcester B97 5AS (tel 01527 62174; e-mail: ken.elliott@redditchbc.gov.uk); run by the Redditch Borough Council. Price: £250. Time allotted: 30 minutes (extra time can be booked for £47). They will accept home-made, wicker or cardboard coffins and body bags or shrouds. Chapel: 'Timber and slate, without religious symbols except a cross on the descending catafalque.' Grounds: 'Spacious, naturally-designed gardens in rolling Worcestershire countryside.' They have adopted the Charter for the Bereaved. 'Our aim is to say "yes" to mourners' needs' (Ken Elliott).

  • Crem Shrewsbury: Emstrey Crematorium, London Road, Shrewsbury, Shropshire SY2 6PS (tel 01743 359883). Price: £175. Time allotted: 40 minutes (extra time can be booked for £175). They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins, and body bags or shrouds, subject to FBCA conditions. They publish a basic leaflet for families arranging the funeral without a funeral director or without a minister. Chapel: 'Modern, church-like.' Grounds: 'A quiet restful atmosphere with private formal gardens set in open countryside.' 'The Chapel of Remembrance contains an 'on-screen' memorial cabinet where personalised memorials including photographs and drawings can be viewed' (M. J. Beardall).

  • Cem Solihull: Robin Hood Cemetery, Streetsbrook Road, Shirley, Solihull, West Midlands (tel 0121 744 1121); run by Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council. Plot (50 years) incl. digging and burial £645 (triple for non-residents). They will accept home-made or cardboard coffins. Chapel: 'Church-like but intimate in size.' Grounds: 'Urban woodlands.' Memorials: 'Maximum 5' height.' 'Well maintained and landscaped' (Bernard McHale). See also the woodland burial area at Woodlands Cemetery, Coleshill, run by Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council, details in The Natural Death Centre's list of Woodland Burial Sites.

  • Cem Solihull: Widney Manor Cemetery, Widney Manor Road, Bentley Heath, Solihull, West Midlands; run by Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council from the Robin Hood Cemetery, Streetsbrook Road, Shirley, Solihull, West Midlands (tel 0121 744 1121). Plot (50 years) incl. digging and burial £645 (triple for non-residents). They will accept home-made or cardboard coffins. No chapel. Grounds: 'Rural.' Memorials: 'Maximum 5' height.' 'Well maintained and landscaped' (Bernard McHale).

  • Crem Solihull: Solihull Crematorium, Streetsbrook Road, Shirley, Solihull, West Midlands (tel 0121 744 1121); run by Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council. Price: £260. Time allotted: 30 minutes between service times (extra time can be booked for £70). They will accept home-made or cardboard coffins. Chapel: '.Church-like, fixed pews.' Grounds: 'Woodland approach on entrance drive. Well maintained.' 'All services are quality assured to quality system standard BS EN ISO 9002:1994. The buildings have attractive architecture' (Bernard McHale).

  • Cem Stafford: Stafford Cemetery, Tixall Road, Stafford ST18 0XZ (tel 01785 242594; fax 01785 228521); run by Stafford Borough Council. The council runs two other cemeteries - Eccleshall Cemetery, Eccleshall Road, Stafford; and Stone Cemetery, A34, Stone - to which the following details also apply, unless otherwise stated. Plot (50 years) incl. digging and burial £367 (double for non-residents). They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins, or body bags or shrouds. Chapel: '1960s, warm.' Grounds: 'From lawn cemeteries to mature old type. Eccleshall Road backs onto Doxey Marches, a recognised wildlife sanctuary.' They have adopted the Charter for the Bereaved. 'Competitive prices. Mature trees and shrubs. Natural areas' (Rachel Lewis). There is a small woodland burial area within Stone Cemetery (see The Natural Death Centre's list of Woodland Burial Sites for details).

  • *** Crem Stafford: Stafford Crematorium, Tixall Road, Stafford ST18 0XZ (tel 01785 242594; fax 01785 228521); run by Stafford Borough Council. Price: £188. Time allotted: No limit. They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins and body bags or shrouds 'at the registrar's discretion'. Chapel: 'A warm and inviting chapel, with wooden decor and blue upholstery, with seating for 98 people.' Grounds: 'A parkland effect with slight undulations in a countryside area with mature trees.' They have adopted the Charter for the Bereaved. For details of the woodland burial site see The Natural Death Centre's list of Woodland Burial Sites (Anthony Evans). Winner of the New Natural Death Handbook Award 2000 for the Best Crematorium in the West Midlands.

  • Crem Stoke-on-Trent: Carmountside Crematorium, Leek Road, Milton, Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire ST2 7AB (run by Karen Deaville for Stoke-on-Trent City Council, tel 01782 535050). Price: £245. Time allotted: 30 minutes (extra time can be booked for £55). They will accept cardboard or wicker coffins. Chapel: 'Built in 1930s, seats 175.' Grounds: 'Varied gardens including woodland, garden of remembrance and babies' and children's garden.' The crematorium has a viewing room where up to 12 people can have a sideways view of the coffin entering the cremator. 'Winner of Cemetery and Crematorium of the Year Competition 1999' (Karen Deaville).

  • Crem Stourbridge: Stourbridge Crematorium, South Road, Stourbridge, West Midlands DY8 3RQ (tel 01384 813985); run by Dudley Metropolitan Borough. Price: £266. Time allotted: 20 minutes at half-hourly intervals (extra time can be booked for £45). They will accept home-made or cardboard coffins. Chapel: 'A converted cemetery chapel with a church-like atmosphere.' Grounds: 'A pleasant, mature, traditional cemetery landscape' (Liz Mansell).

  • Cem Telford: Castle Green Cemetery, Beeches Road, Ironbridge, Telford; run by Leisure and Community Services, Telford & Wrekin Council, Darby House, Telford TF3 4LA (tel 01952 202754; e-mail: lcc@wrekin.gov.uk). The council runs two other cemeteries - Wellington Cemetery, Linden Avenue, Wellington, Telford; and Wombridge Cemetery, Wombridge, Telford - to which the following details also apply, unless otherwise stated. Plot (75 years) incl. digging and burial £132 (single, unpurchased - purchase price £199) (double for non-residents). They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins and body bags or shrouds. No chapel. Memorials: 'Maximum 3' 6" height normally - can be taller if fixing method proven to be safe' They have adopted the Charter for the Bereaved. 'Flexible, accommodating service' (Rachel Lewis). They have opened a small wild flower Natural Burial Ground within the Castle Green Cemetery (see The Natural Death Centre's list of Woodland Burial Sites for details).

  • Crem Walsall: Streetly Crematorium, Little Hardwick Road, Aldridge, Walsall WS9 0SG (tel 0121 353 7228). Price: £225 (£675 for non-residents). Time allotted: 30 minutes (extra time can be booked for £41). They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins and body bags. Chapel: 'There are two chapels, with interiors in hand-finished straw coloured brickwork and a high, sloping, cedar ceiling. Suitable for small or large non-denominational gatherings.' Grounds: 'A 27-acre site in the greenfield fringe to the East of the borough in a pleasant, rural environment, well separated from residential development.' 'A friendly, flexible and helpful service to all' (Steve Billings).

  • Crem West Bromwich: West Bromwich Crematorium, Newton Road, West Bromwich B71 3SX (tel 0121 588 2664); run by Sandwell Metropolitan Borough Council. Price: £250. Time allotted: 20 minutes (extra time can be booked for £125). They will accept cardboard coffins. Chapel: 'Modern. Seats 160.' Grounds: 'Landscaped gardens' (Mr K. Howard).

  • Crem Wolverhampton: Bushbury Crematorium, Underhill Lane, Bushbury, Wolverhampton (tel 01902 554992 or 554993); run by Wolverhampton Borough Council. Price: £230. Time allotted: 30 minutes (extra time can be booked for £55). They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins. Chapels: 'Modern design. In West Chapel (seating 80) coffin lowers, in East Chapel (seating 50) curtain draws across.' Grounds: '40-acre site with planted flower borders, and a wooded area for placing cremated remains.' 'We have not officially adopted the Charter for the Bereaved but we act within its spirit.' 'Two chapels allow the family to choose the way the coffin is committed, and the East Chapel allows for a more intimate service' (Clare Yardley).

  • Crem Worcester: Worcester Crematorium, Tintern Avenue, Astwood Road, Worcester WR3 8HA (tel 01905 22633); run by City of Worcester Council. Price: £210. Time allotted: 30 minutes (there would be a £50 charge for extra time - 'a double service is available if we are not busy'). They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins, 'as long as they have extra support for carrying.' A leaflet is provided for 'd-i-y' families. Chapel: '1960s building with a conventional layout, with seating for 100 people.' Grounds: 'Attractive lawns and borders with a stream running though. The Garden of Remembrance is adjacent to the old cemetery with its many fine old established trees.' 'We will deal with any requests that do not adversely affect other users.' ' We are currently adopting the Charter for the Bereaved' (David Seaman).

    East Midlands

    Comprising Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Leicestershire, Warwickshire, Northamptonshire, Bedfordshire, Oxfordshire, Buckinghamshire.

  • FD Crem Amersham: Chilterns Crematorium, Whielden Lane, Amersham, Buckinghamshire HP7 0ND (tel 01494 724263; fax 01494 433065). Price: £190-50. Time allotted: 30 minutes. They will accept home-made or cardboard coffins, and will consider other body containers if they can be inspected in advance. They publish a useful five-page guide for families arranging funerals without a funeral director. Chapel: '1960s brick-built with copper roof.' Grounds: 'A natural woodland setting in open countryside on the edge of the Chiltern Hills'. 'Willing to consider every reasonable request on its merits' (Charles Howlett).

  • Cem Bedford: Norse Road Cemetery, 104 Norse Road, Bedford, Bedfordshire (tel 01234 353701; e-mail: MDAY@Bedford.gov.uk). Plot (75 years) incl. digging and burial £277. They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins and body bags or shrouds. Length of funeral service: 45 minutes (extra time can be booked for £30). Chapel: 'Modern, secular.' Grounds: 'Modern, heavily wooded.' Memorials: 'Lawn-type back to back.' They have adopted the Charter for the Bereaved. 'Well-kept' (Michael Day). There is also a one-acre woodland burial area (see The Natural Death Centre's list of Woodland Burial Sites for details).

  • Crem Bedford: Bedford Crematorium, Cemetery Complex, 104 Norse Road, Bedford, Bedfordshire (tel 01234 353701; e-mail: MDAY@Bedford.gov.uk). Price: £221 (£200 non-residents). Time allotted: 45 minutes (extra time can be booked without charge). They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins and body bags or shrouds. Chapel: 'Modern, with wall-hangings and oak seating.' Grounds: 'Designed for ease of access and egress.' They have adopted the Charter for the Bereaved. 'Each funeral an individual experience' (Mr Michael Day).

  • Cem Belper: Belper Cemetery, Matlock Road, Belper, Derbyshire (tel 01773 841418; e-mail: enquiry@ambervalley.gov.uk; web: www.ambervalley.gov.uk); run by Amber Valley Borough Council, Environment and Leisure Department, PO Box 18, Town Hall, Ripley, Derbyshire DE5 3TU. The council also runs five other cemeteries - Alfreton Cemetery, Rodgers Lane, Alfreton; Crosshill Cemetery, Heanor Road, Codnor; Heanor Cemetery, Ilkeston Road, Marlpool, Heanor; Leabrooks Cemetery, Albert Street, Leabrooks; and Ripley Cemetery, Cemetery Lane, Ripley - for all of which the following details apply, unless otherwise stated. Plot (99 years) incl. digging and burial £337 (£405-50 for non-residents). They will accept home-made or cardboard coffins. Length of funeral service: Approximately 40 minutes. Chapel: 'At Leabrooks Cemetery and Heanor Cemetery only.' Memorials: 'Max height 1m, no metal memorials' (Paul Martin). There is also a woodland burial area within Belper Cemetery (see The Natural Death Centre's list of Woodland Burial Sites for details).

  • Crem Bramcote: Bramcote Crematorium, Coventry Lane, Bramcote, Beeston, Nottingham NG9 3GJ (tel 0115 9221837; fax 0115 9430067); run by the Joint Bramcote Crematorium Committee. Price: £160. Time allotted: 20 minutes (extra time can be booked for £160). They will accept home-made, cardboard, or wicker coffins. Chapel: 'Modern, with large window giving view of small enclosed garden, with seating for 95 people.' Grounds: 'Parkland with lots of trees, seats and walks with no plaques as well as immaculate gardens.' They have adopted the Charter for the Bereaved. 'We aim to make each service very personal, and keep costs low to help families' (Mrs Richards).

  • Crem Kettering: Kettering Crematorium, East Lodge, Rothwell Road, Kettering, Northamptonshire NN16 8XE (tel 01536 534218); run by Kettering Borough Council. Price: £225 ( £250 for non-residents). Time allotted: 45 minutes (extra time can be booked for £30). They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins and shrouds. Chapels: 'One modern, non-denominational, the other church-like; one seats 105, the other 50.' Grounds: 'Pleasant gardens with mature woodland areas.' 'Advice and assistance to those wanting more involvement with funeral arrangements is freely given - funerals are viewed as the family's, not ours.' They are establishing a woodland burial ground - see The Natural Death Centre's list of Woodland Burial Sites for details (Sue Williams).

  • *** Crem Leamington Spa: Mid-Warwickshire Crematorium, Oakley Wood, Bishops Tachbrook, Leamington Spa, Warwickshire CV33 9QP (tel 01926 651 418); run by Warwick District Council. Price: £160 (£185 for non-residents). Time allotted: 30 minutes (extra time can be booked for £30 per 30 minutes). They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins and body bags or shrouds. Chapels: 'Modern. The North Chapel seats 20 people; the South Chapel seats 80 and has an organ. There is a music system and collection in both chapels.' Grounds: 'Informal woodland.' They have adopted the Charter for the Bereaved. 'Our crematorium must be one of the most flexible and helpful crematoria in the UK. The atmosphere is extremely peaceful and the woodland is home to many forms of wildlife. We are planning to open a woodland memorial garden. There is no commercialism' (Andrea Barnet). Winner of the New Natural Death Handbook Award 2000 for the Best Crematorium in the East Midlands.

  • Cem Leicester: Gilroes Cemetery, Groby Road, Leicester, Leicestershire LE3 9QG (tel 0116 287 2292 fax; 0116 222 8706; e-mail: doohj001@leicester.gov.uk); run by Leicester City Council, from the Cemeteries Office, New Walk Centre, Welford Place, Leicester LE1 6ZG. They also run Saffron Hill Cemetery, Stonesby Avenue, Leicester; Welford Road Cemetery, Welford Road, Leicester; and Belgrave Cemetery, Red Hill Way, Leicester. Plot (99 years) incl. digging and burial £442 (double for non-residents). Length of funeral service: 30 minutes (extra time can be booked for £24). They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins and body bags or shrouds. Chapel: 'Traditional, Gothic-cum-Tudor, seating 85 people, with large Assembly Hall attached. There are also music facilities.' Grounds: 'As well as the architecture, the Assembly Hall is a distinguishing feature of particular interest to Hindu, Sikh and Jain families.' Memorials: 'No kerbsets. Nothing above 4' 6"high.' 'We will give as much assistance to families not using a funeral director as they require '(John Dooher).

  • Crem Leicester: Gilroes Crematorium, Groby Road, Leicester, Leicestershire LE3 9QG (tel 0116 287 2292 fax; 0116 222 8706; e-mail: doohj001@leicester.gov.uk run by Leicester City Council, from the Cemeteries Office, New Walk Centre, Welford Place, Leicester LE1 6ZG. Price: £176 (£186 for non-residents). Time allotted: 30 minutes (extra time can be booked for £24). They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins and body bags or shrouds. Chapel: 'Traditional, Gothic-cum-Tudor, seating 85 people, with large Assembly Hall attached. There are also music facilities.' Grounds: 'In the middle of a cemetery. As well as the architecture, the Assembly Hall is a distinguishing feature of particular interest to Hindu, Sikh and Jain families.' 'We will give as much assistance to families not using a funeral director as they require' (John Dooher).

  • *** Cem Luton: Luton Church Cemetery Office, 26 Crawley Green Road, Luton, Bedfordshire (tel 01582 722874); run by Luton Church Cemetery Trustees. Plot £150 (single) £175 (double) - prices for the digging vary. Maintenance: £55 p.a. 'We positively encourage home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins and body bags or shrouds.' Length of funeral service: No time limit, given four days' notice. Chapel: 'A traditional, high Victorian Chapel currently being redecorated. It is private, small and functional.' Grounds: 'A varied site with chalk grassland, copses and a wild flower meadow. Within it can be found 180 different species of plants, 3 species of orchid and 12 endangered plants.' Memorials: 'Absolutely no restrictions.' 'Understanding and helpful staff' (Sean MacDonald). Winner of the New Natural Death Handbook Award 2000 for the Best Cemetery in the East Midlands.

  • Crem Luton: Luton Crematorium, The Vale, Butterfield Green Road, Stopsley, Luton, Bedforshire LU2 8DD (tel 01582 23700 or 30761); run by Luton Borough Council. Price: £203 (£213 non-residents). Time allotted: 45 minutes between services (extra time can only be booked by paying for a double slot). They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins. Chapel: 'Modern and functional, with seating for 120 people.' Grounds: 'Pleasant semi-rural setting.' 'Helpful staff' (N. Schonewald).

  • Crem Mansfield: Mansfield and District Crematorium, Derby Road, Mansfield, Nottinghamshire NG18 5BJ (tel 01623 621811). Price: £180 (£30 extra for non-residents). Time allotted: 20 minutes, with services at 45 minute intervals (extra time can be booked for £39). They will accept cardboard or wicker coffins. Chapels: 'Two chapels, one traditional and church-like, seating 80; the other light wood and glass, modern.' Grounds: 'Surrounded by woodland, pleasant gardens. No chemicals used unless absolutely necessary.' They have adopted the Charter for the Bereaved. 'Easily accessible by motorway, train, etc. We are forward thinking and open to suggestions' (Sally A. Curtis).

  • Cem Oxford: Wolvercote Cemetery, Banbury Road, Oxford OX2 8EE (tel 01865 513962); run by Oxford City Council. Administers branch cemeteries at Headington, Rosehill, and Botley, of similar design and with same pricing and practice. Plot (75 years) incl. digging and burial £388, (double for non-residents). Maintenance: £46 p.a. They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins. Length of funeral service: 30 minutes (extra time can be booked for £27). Chapel: 'Victorian, with fully-equipped organ.' Grounds: 'Late Victorian; wide variety of trees.' Memorials: 'No kerbs.' They have adopted the Charter for the Bereaved. 'Service to the public is paramount. We received the IBCA and MAB Cemetery of the Year Award, 1999' (H. P. Dawson). See also details of their woodland burial areas in The Natural Death Centre's list of Woodland Burial Sites.

  • Cem Retford: The Cemetery, North Road, Retford, Nottinghamshire; run by Bassetlaw District Council, Leisure Services, Grove House, 27 Grove Street, Retford, Nottinghamshire DN22 6JP (tel 01909 533487). Plot (99 years) incl. digging and burial £217 (£108-50 extra for non-residents). They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins and body bags or shrouds. Length of funeral service: 'As required.' No chapel. Grounds: 'It is like a country park, with about 1,000 trees and the Chesterfield Canal running through it.' Memorials: 'Maximum 3' high on lawn sections. Kerb memorials are allowed on some sections.' 'We provide a fully comprehensive service for the bereaved, with a close association with local bereavement care groups' (Cyril Blackshaw). For details of the woodland burial area see The Natural Death Centre's list of Woodland Burial Sites.

  • Cem Wigston: Wigston Cemetery, Welford Road, Wigston, Leicestershire (tel 0116 2880942). Plot (100 years) incl. digging and burial £230. Chapel: Victorian . Grounds: 'Neatly laid out.' Memorials: 'None above 2' 6" in height and no kerbs.' (N. R. Coy).

  • Cem Worksop: Hannah Park Cemetery, Netherton Road, Worksop, Nottinghamshire; run by Bassetlaw District Council, Leisure Services, Grove House, 27 Grove Street, Retford, Nottinghamshire DN22 6JP (tel 01909 533487). Plot (99 years) incl. digging and burial £217 (£108-50 extra for non-residents). They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins and body bags or shrouds. Length of funeral service: 'As required.' Chapel: 'Made in 1900 from large, Yorkshire stone bricks.' Grounds: 'Adjoining woodland, with a panoramic view of the town.' Memorials: 'Maximum 3' high on lawn sections. Kerb memorials are allowed on some sections.' 'One price for all adult burials and one price for grave purchases' (Cyril Blackshaw). For details of the woodland burial area see The Natural Death Centre's list of Woodland Burial Sites.

    East Anglia

    Comprising Norfolk, Suffolk, Essex, Cambridgeshire and Hertfordshire.

  • Crem Basildon: Basildon and District Crematorium, Church Road, Bowers Gifford, Basildon, Essex SS13 2HG (tel 01268 584411). Run by Crematoria Management Ltd. Price: £248. Time allotted: 30 minutes. They will accept home-made or cardboard coffins. Chapel: 'Modern, natural wood used, organ or tape music.' Grounds: 'Open countryside' (P. J. Wilson).

  • Cem Braintree: Braintree Cemetery, London Road, Braintree, Essex; run by Community Services, Braintree District Council, Causeway House, Bocking End, Braintree, Essex CM7 9HB (tel 01376 552523 ext 2324). The council runs three other similar cemeteries - Bocking Cemetery, Church Lane, Bocking; Halstead Cemetery, Colchester Road, Halstead; and Witham Cemetery, Manor Road, Witham - to which the following details also apply, unless otherwise stated: Plot (100 years) incl. digging and burial £420 (double for non-residents). Maintenance: £52-88. Length of funeral service: 'Up to approximately one hour.' Chapel: 'There are chapels at Braintree, Bocking and Witham.' Memorials: 'Varying restrictions depending on the area.'. 'Families can reserve or select a grave space at no extra cost' (Michael Ashby). A woodland burial area is planned at Braintree Cemetery (see The Natural Death Centre's list of Woodland Burial Sites for details).

  • Crem Bury St Edmunds: West Suffolk Crematorium, Near Risby, Bury St. Edmunds, Suffolk IP28 6RR (tel 01284 755118). Run by Crematoria Management Ltd. Price: £255. Time allotted: 45 minutes between services. They will accept home-made or cardboard coffins. Chapel: 'Design based on old Suffolk barn.' Grounds: 'Peaceful rural setting.' 'A small staff work as a team, united to help the funeral directors and bereaved' (Royna Brunskill).

  • Cem Cambridge: Cambridge City Cemetery, Newmarket Road, Cambridge (tel 01954 780681). Plot (50 years) incl. digging and burial £645 (£750 extra for non-residents). They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins and body bags or shrouds. Length of funeral service: No set limit. Chapel: 'Traditional, church-like.' Grounds: 'No exceptional features.' Memorials: 'Traditional sections graves are not restricted, but must be agreed; headstone/vase only in the lawn section.' 'Well-established cemetery with identified areas for special religious groups, and a separate infants/children's section. It has space for new graves only to about 2003. A new cemetery, adjacent to Cambridge City crematorium (see below) is in the planning stage, and will incorporate a woodland/green burial area' (see The Natural Death Centre's list of Woodland Burial Sites for details) (David Giles).

  • Crem Cambridge: Cambridge City Crematorium, Huntingdon Road, Cambridge CB3 OJJ (tel 01954 780681). Price: £295. Time allotted: 45 minutes (extra time can be booked for £140). They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins; they would consider shrouds or body bags. Chapel: 'A more traditional East chapel from 1938 and a modern West chapel from 1991.' Grounds: 'Crematorium situated in open countryside of Cambridge green belt.' 'A total flexibility' (David Giles).

  • Cem Cheshunt: Cheshunt Cemetery, Bury Green, Cheshunt, Herts EN7 5AG; run by Broxbourne Borough Council, Cemetery Office, Bishops College, Churchgate, Cheshunt, Herts EN8 9XF (tel 01992 785507; e-mail: broxbournebc@compuserve.com). Plot (100 years) £370 - or £150 for an 'unpurchased plot' (both charges are quadruple for non-residents). Maintenance: 'No maintenance charge in lawn sections, elsewhere an optional £44 (£88 including plants).' They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins and body bags or shrouds. Length of funeral service: 'Unlimited. Over one hour by arrangement.' Chapel: 'Plain white walls, full carpet, with wooden panelled and beamed ceilings. Central heating. No organ, but taped music and PA facility.' Grounds: 'Half urban, half rural in feel. Quiet. Many trees. Extensive wildlife. Well maintained.' Memorials: 'Lawn graves maximum height 3'. Conventional graves maximum height 4' 6". Any natural stone. No restrictions on inscriptions (within public decency). No memorial fees charged.' They have adopted the Charter for the Bereaved. 'A woodland burial ground is planned for 2005 (see The Natural Death Centre's list of Woodland Burial Sites for details). Meanwhile, individual woodland graves are possible. Chartermark Award 1999. No charges for use of chapel; rose petals provided for mourners at interments; rain shelter over graves where necessary. Maximum number of customer choices - the customer is always right' (Jim Duncan).

  • Cem Clacton-on-Sea: Clacton Cemetery, Burrs Road, Clacton-on-Sea, Essex (tel 01255 831108; e-mail: weeleycrem@netscapeonline.co.uk); run by Tendring District Council. Plot (99 years) incl. digging and burial £388. They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins. Length of funeral service: 45 minutes for the chapel and graveside (extra time is charged at £42). Chapel: 'Late 19th century, small but compact, with seating for 44 people.' Grounds: 'Lawned areas neat and tidy, with rose bushes in between headstones.' Memorials: 'Within size restrictions.' 'The grounds are neat and the staff caring' (Jerry Howe).

  • Cem Colchester: Colchester Cemetery, Mersea Road, Colchester, Essex CO2 8RU (tel 01206 282950); run by Colchester Borough Council. Plot (50 or 100 years) incl. digging and burial £413 (50 years), £557 (100 years); (extra £85 for non-residents). Maintenance: £20 p.a. They will accept home-made or cardboard coffins. Length of funeral service: 20 minutes. Chapel: 'Small Victorian Gothic.' Grounds: 'Victorian, with a variety of long-established trees.' Memorials: 'Within size and materials restrictions.' A woodland burial area is planned - see The Natural Death Centre's list of Woodland Burial Sites for details (C. Ryland).

  • Crem Colchester: Colchester Crematorium, Mersea Road, Colchester, Essex CO2 8RU (tel 01206 282950); run by Colchester Borough Council. Price: £212. Time allotted: 20 minutes (an extra 20 minutes can normally be booked for £70). They will accept home-made or cardboard coffins. 'We will also accept the "Cocoon System", where only the inner cardboard coffin is cremated and the outer coffin is given back discreetly.' Chapel: 'Modern, non-denominational.' Grounds: 'Formal gardens in attractive 1850s cemetery with fine, mature specimen trees. The gardens have recently been enhanced by further tree planting' (C. Ryland).

  • Cem Ely: Ely Cemetery, Beech Lane, Ely, Cambridgeshire (tel 01353 669659); run by the City of Ely Town Council, 72 Market Street, Ely, Cambridgeshire. Plot (99 years) incl. digging and burial from £163 (double for non-residents). They would consider cardboard or unusual coffins 'if requested'; likewise, funerals by families not using funeral directors. No time limit on funeral services. Chapel: 'Brick and stone, completed in 1856.' Grounds: 'Rural setting. Relatives can put bulbs and plants on graves.' Memorials: 'Must not exceed 4' in height and no new kerbstones.' The concept of a woodland burial ground is under consideration. 'Ely cemetery was a finalist in the Cemetery of the Year Competition in 1998' (Win Hughes).

  • Cem Frinton-on-Sea: Kirby Cross Cemetery, Holland Road, Kirby Cross, Frinton-on-Sea, Essex (tel 01255 831108; e-mail: weeleycrem@netscapeonline.co.uk). Plot (99 years) incl. digging and burial £388. They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins. Length of funeral service: 45 minutes for the chapel and graveside (extra time can be booked without charge). Chapel: 'Late 19th century, small but compact, with seating for 44 people.' Grounds: 'Lawned areas neat and tidy.' Memorials: 'Within size restrictions.' 'The grounds are neat and the staff caring' (Jerry Howe).

  • Cem Harlow: Parndon Wood Cemetery, Parndon Wood Road, Harlow, Essex CM19 4SF (tel 01279 423800 or 446199; e-mail: chrisbrown@harlow.gov.uk); run by Harlow Council. Plot (50 years) incl. digging and burial £1,082. They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins, and body bags or shrouds. Length of funeral service: 30 minutes. Chapel: 'Non-denominational.' Grounds: 'Tranquil woodland setting.' Memorials: 'Within size restrictions; no kerbing.' 'Having BSI registration shows that we give an excellent service' (Mrs Chris Brown). For details of the natural burial area, see The Natural Death Centre's list of Woodland Burial Sites.

  • Crem Harlow: Parndon Wood Crematorium, Parndon Wood Road, Harlow, Essex CM19 4SF (tel 01279 423800 or 446199; e-mail: chrisbrown@harlow.gov.uk); run by Harlow Council. Price: £205. Time allotted: 30 minutes (extra time can be booked for a variable charge). They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins and body bags or shrouds. Chapel: 'Non-denominational, with removable cross.' Grounds: 'Lovely woodland area.' 'A separate baby and children's area. We have extended the cemetery and it will soon include a natural burial area' (Mrs Chris Brown).

  • Cem Harwich: Dovercourt Cemetery, Main Road, Dovercourt, Harwich, Essex (tel 01255 831108; e-mail: weeleycrem@netscapeonline.co.uk). Plot (99 years) incl. digging and burial £388. They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins. Length of funeral service: 45 minutes for the chapel and graveside (extra time can be booked without charge). Chapel: 'Late 19th century, small but compact, with seating for 44 people.' Grounds: 'Lawned areas neat and tidy.' Memorials: 'Within size restrictions.' 'The grounds are neat and the staff caring' (Jerry Howe).

  • Cem Hoddesdon: Hoddesdon Cemetery, Warr Road, Hoddesdon, Herts EN11 9AE; run by Broxbourne Borough Council, Cemetery Office, Bishops College, Churchgate, Cheshunt, Herts EN8 9XF (tel 01992 785507; e-mail: broxbournebc@compuserve.com). All details the same as Cheshunt Cemetery above, except that 'since the site is nearly full, with only sufficient virgin ground until about 2006, plots are only available for residents, unless it is for a very close relative of a resident, in which case the interment fee is quadrupled'. The chapel: 'Red brick walls with oak beamed and pannelled ceiling, centrally heated, music playback and P. A.' (Jim Duncan).

  • *** Crem King's Lynn: Mintlyn Crematorium, Lynn Road, Bawsey, King's Lynn, Norfolk PE32 1HB (tel 01553 630533); run by the Borough of Kings Lynn and West Norfolk. Price: £209. Time allotted: 45 minutes (extra time can be booked for £41-18). They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins and body bags or shrouds. Chapel: 'Modern with lowering catafalque, with seating for 100 people.' Grounds: 'Mature woodland glades set with memorial shrubs and trees.' They have adopted the Charter for the Bereaved (Colin Houseman). Winner of the New Natural Death Handbook Award 2000 for the Best Crematorium in East Anglia.

  • *** Cem Maldon: Maldon Cemetery, London Road, Maldon, Essex (information from Maldon District Council Offices, Princes Road, Maldon, Essex CM9 5DL, tel 01621 875836). Plot (100 years) £373 (double for non-residents). A family organising a funeral themselves would need to make a private arrangement with one of the gravediggers locally (the cemetery can provide a list) - the cost is likely to be about £150. Maintenance: No charge. They will accept home-made and cardboard coffins. Length of funeral service: 'Any reasonable time is allowed.' Chapel: 'Simple Victorian chapel, refurbished 1996, seats 40 people. Available without extra charge.' Grounds: 'Rural, on the edge of town, surrounded by farmland.' Memorials: 'All types of memorial are permitted in the traditional cemetery area. Our Victorian hand pull bier has been renovated and brought into service' (John Hughes). There is also a Primrose Garden for children's burials and a woodland burial ground (see The Natural Death Centre's list of Woodland Burial Sites for details). Winner of the New Natural Death Handbook Award 2000 for the Best Cemetery in East Anglia.

  • Crem Norwich: St Faiths Crematorium, 75 Manor Road, Horsham St Faith, Norwich NR10 3LF (tel 01603 897727); run by SCI (UK). Price: £278. Time allotted: 30 minutes (extra time can be booked for £80). They will accept home-made, wicker or cardboard coffins and body bags or shrouds. Chapel: '1930s, church-like, with seating for 100; it has a PA system, a hearing loop system and a catafalque with curtains.' Grounds: '26 acres. Our Gardens of Remembrance are of particular peace and beauty.' 'Saturday and Sunday services; opening hours may be extended to accommodate client preferences. No reasonable request is refused' (Mrs A Jarvis).

  • Cem Peterborough: Broadway and Eastfield Cemeteries, Eastfield Road, Peterborough, Cambridgeshire (tel 01733 262639; web: Natural Death Centre . www.peterborough. gov.uk); run by Peterborough Bereavement Services. Also administers the Woodston, Stanground and Fletton cemeteries under the same pricing, burial and memorial policy. Plot (100 years) incl. digging and burial £580 (double for non-residents). They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffin and body bags or shrouds. No chapel facilities. Grounds: 'Broadway cemetery has a conservation area and a superb range of wild flowers.' Memorials: 'Lawn and traditional type.' They have adopted the Charter for the Bereaved. 'We work to ensure that each service is as individual and meaningful as possible' (Kate Day). See also details of their woodland burial area at Fletton Cemetery in The Natural Death Centre's list of Woodland Burial Sites.

  • Crem Peterborough: Peterborough Crematorium, Mowbray Road, North Bretton, Peterborough, Cambridgeshire PE6 7JE (tel 01733 262639; web: Natural Death Centre . www.peterborough.gov.uk); run by Peterborough Bereavement Services. Price: £215. Time allotted: 30 minutes (extra time can be booked for £124). They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins (subject to full details in advance). Chapel: 'Modern, church-like; side wall of glass looking out to semi-woodland.' Grounds: 'Semi-woodland.' They have adopted the Charter for the Bereaved. 'Our attitude is that if we are asked for something out of the usual we consider "why not" rather than just plain "no". One gentleman organised a d-i-y funeral - he stayed to watch throughout the whole, three-hour cremation process. This had been his uncle's wish. This is an example of how we will go out of our way to help' (Kate Day).

  • Cem Southend-on-Sea: Sutton Road Cemetery, Sutton Road, Southend-on-Sea, Essex SS2 5PX (tel 01702 603907); run by Southend Borough Council. Plot (50, 75 and 100 years) incl. digging and burial £777 (no extra for non-residents). Maintenance: 'Fees for contracts.' They will accept home-made or cardboard coffins. Length of funeral service: 30 minutes (extra time may be booked for £44). Chapel: 'Stone church built in 1902, new seating for 30; a non-denominational stone chapel is also available.' Grounds: 'Over 40 acres, with traditional and lawn sections.' Memorials: 'Must be lawn headstone type.' 'Picturesque cemetery with knowledgeable staff. No interment fees for children up to the age of 16' (G. Green).

  • Crem Southend-on-Sea: Southend-on-Sea Crematorium, Sutton Road, Southend-on-Sea, Essex SS2 5PX (tel 01702 215018); run by Southend Borough Council. Price: £236. Time allotted: 40 minutes (extra time can be booked for £76). They will accept home-made or cardboard coffins. Chapels: 'Two chapels, one church-like, the other modern. Good acoustics, loop system installed, easy access, wheelchairs available on request.' Grounds: 'Gardens back onto open fields. Woodland memorial garden, densely planted with native trees, underplanted with hollies, ferns and dog-roses. A small stream emanates from a rock pool, through gardens into a large pond. However, there is a busy road at the front and small industrial area to the south.' 'Environmental awareness and support for conservation and the general quality and appearance of the crematorium. No cremation fees for children up to the age of 16' (G. Green).

  • Crem Upminster: South Essex Crematorium, Okendon Road, Corbets Tey, Upminster, Essex RM14 2UY (tel 01708 222188); run by London Borough of Havering. Price: £230 (with recorded music), £253 (with organ music). Time allotted: 30 minutes (extra time can be booked for £61-50). They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins. Chapels: 'The South chapel has flexible seating for about 100 people.' Grounds: 'Established formal garden.' They have adopted the Charter for the Bereaved. 'We are flexible to clients' wishes as long as they are not disturbing others' (Sharon Herbert).

  • Crem Weeley: Weeley Crematorium, Colchester Road, Weeley, Essex CO16 9JP (tel 01255 831108; e-mail: weeleycrem@netscapeonline.co.uk); run by Tendring District Council. Price: £233. Time allotted: 45 minutes for the service (extra time £88 for 45 minutes). They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins. Chapel: 'Modern, non-denominational, brick walls with wood seating and roof.' Grounds: 'Park-like grounds. Fish pond with waterfall and fountain.' Tape recordings of services can be ordered for £11-75. 'We are a small team like a family. I hope that friendliness and a caring attitude are conveyed to our visitors' (Jerry Howe).

    South West

    Comprising South Gloucestershire, Bristol, Bath and North East Somerset, North West Somerset, Somerset, Dorset, Devon, Cornwall.

  • *** Crem Barnstaple: North Devon Crematorium, Old Torrington Road, Barnstaple, Devon EX31 3NW (tel 01271 345431; fax 01271 328116); run by North Devon and Torridge District Council. Price: £214. Time allotted: 30 minutes (extra time can be booked for £44 per half hour). Provided they conform to regulations, they will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins and body bags or shrouds. Chapel: 'Opened in 1966, with a serene atmosphere and seating for up to 100 people.' Grounds: 'Seven acres of secluded grounds with woodland on two sides.' 'Staff on duty 365 days of year for advice and information' (Mr Graham Bailey). Winner of the New Natural Death Handbook Award 2000 for the Best Crematorium in the South West.

  • Cem Bath: Haycombe Cemetery, Haycombe Cemetery, Whiteway Road, Bath BA2 2RQ (tel 01225 423682; e-mail: reg-greenall@bathnes.gov.uk); run by the Bath and North East Somerset Council. Plot (75 years) incl. digging and burial £600 (£300 extra for non-residents). They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins and body bags or shrouds. Length of funeral service: 30 minutes. Chapel: 'Built in the 1930s of Bath stone - it is dignified but light and airy, and was refurbished in 1993.' Grounds: 'Overlooks a rural valley.' Memorials: 'Restrictions vary in different sections of cemetery - in some areas there are no restrictions.' Also has a woodland burial section (see The Natural Death Centre's list of Woodland Burial Sites for details). (R. G. Greenall).

  • Crem Bath: Haycombe Crematorium, Whiteway Road, Bath BA2 2RQ (tel 01225 423682). Price: £255 (no extra for non-residents). Time allotted: 30 minutes (extra time can be booked for £144). They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins and body bags or shrouds. Chapel: 'Modern, with a glass wall overlooking rural valley'. Grounds: 'Open countryside with beautiful views.' 'The staff have mostly been here for a long time and take great pride in providing a good service to the public' (R. G. Greenall).

  • *** Cem Bournemouth: North Cemetery, Strouden Avenue, Bournemouth, Dorset BH8 9HX (tel 01202 526238; e-mail: crematorium@bournemouth.gov.uk); run by Bournemouth Borough Council. Plot (50 years) incl. digging and burial £440 (double fees for non-residents ). Maintenance: £44 p.a. They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins and body bags or shrouds. Length of funeral service: 60 minutes. Chapels: 'One chapel is small and intimate; the other large, more formal, housed within an attractive stone building forming part of the crematorium complex.' Grounds: 'Many established trees, nicely landscaped.' Memorials: 'Currently only natural stone is allowed but this is being reviewed.' They have adopted the Charter for the Bereaved. 'Regulations are regularly reviewed to ensure that as many requests as possible are met' (Julie Dunk). The council also runs three other cemeteries, for which the above details apply, except where stated: East Cemetery, Gloucester Road, Boscombe, Bournemouth (which has a Late Victorian chapel); Kinson Cemetery, South Kinson Drive, Bournemouth (which has a modern chapel); and Wimborne Road Cemetery, Wimborn Road, Bournemouth (which has 'a Late Victorian chapel with fine stained glass windows'). Winner of the New Natural Death Handbook Award 2000 for the Best Cemetery in the South West.

  • Crem Bournemouth: Bournemouth Crematorium, Strouden Avenue, Bournemouth, Dorset BH8 9HX (tel 01202 526238; e-mail: crematorium@bournemouth.gov.uk); run by Bournemouth Borough Council. Price: £209-80. Time allotted: 30 minutes (double time can be booked for £209-80). They will accept home-made, wicker or cardboard coffins and body bags or shrouds. Chapels: 'Two non-denominational chapels with modernised fittings and disabled access, with seating for 30 in one chapel and 80-90 in the other.' Grounds: 'These have glades, seats, rosebeds and a columbarium.' They have adopted the Charter for the Bereaved (Julie Dunk).

  • Cem Bristol: Canford Cemetery, Canford Lane, Westbury-on-Trym, Bristol BS9 3PQ (tel 0117 9038280; e-mail: simon_westbrook@bristol-city.gov.uk); run by Bristol City Council. Plot incl. digging and burial £265. They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins and body bags or shrouds. Chapel: 'A traditional chapel, seating 100 people.' Grounds: 'Traditional.' Memorials: 'We try to maintain a flexible approach.' They have adopted the Charter for the Bereaved (Simon Westbrook).

  • Crem Bristol: Canford Crematorium, Canford Lane, Westbury-on-Trym, Bristol BS9 3PQ (tel 0117 9038280; e-mail: simon_westbrook@bristol-city.gov.uk); run by Bristol City Council. Price: £260. They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins and body bags or shrouds. Chapel: 'A traditional chapel, seating 100 people.' Grounds: 'Traditional.' They have adopted the Charter for the Bereaved (Simon Westbrook).

  • Crem Bristol: Westerleigh Crematorium, Westerleigh Road, Westerleigh, Bristol BS37 8QP (tel 01179 374619). Run by Crematoria Management Ltd. Price: £260. Time allotted: 30 minutes (no charge for extra time, if available). They will accept home-made or cardboard coffins. Chapel: 'Modern.' Grounds: 'Open countryside' (P. J. Wilson).

  • Cem Dorchester: Dorchester Cemetery, Weymouth Avenue, Dorchester, Dorset DT1 2EN (tel 01305 266861); run by the Dorchester Joint Burial Committee. Plot (100 years) incl. digging and burial £474 (non-residents double). Length of funeral service: No time limit. Chapel: 'Victorian, with pews and stained glass window - seats 70 people.' Grounds: 'Well-maintained, secure and pleasant site.' Memorials: 'No restrictions, subject to approval.' 'If current demand continues, the cemetery will be full by 2001, at which point new premises will be sought' (Sue Cheeseman).

  • Cem Exeter: Exwick Cemetery, Exwick Road, Exeter, Devon EX4 2BT. Chapel: 'Seats 70; volcanic stone and brick. Light and airy inside.' Grounds: 'Some fine angels. Attractive hillside setting in the newer areas with views across the valley to the cathedral and the city centre.' 'A special section for stillborn and pre-term babies. Facilities for Muslim and Jewish burials available' (John O'Callaghan). All other details as for Higher Cemetery below. For details of the woodland burial area see The Natural Death Centre's list of Woodland Burial Sites.

  • Cem Exeter: Higher Cemetery, St. Marks Avenue, Heavitree, Exeter, Devon EX1 2PX (tel 01392 265707, e-mail: john.ocallaghan@exeter.gov.co.uk; web: www.exeter.gov.uk). Plot (75 years) incl. digging and burial £312. They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins and shrouds. Length of funeral service: 60 minutes. Chapel: 'Seats 50, £37 per hour. Of distinctive red-hued Heavitree stone. Old but cosy.' Grounds: '1860s urban cemetery with a Commonwealth war graves section, an older section laid out as a "quiet garden" and a small area for wildlife. St Marks cemetery is featured in the local historical society's trail.' Memorials: 'Within size restrictions' (John O'Callaghan). They have adopted the Charter for the Bereaved.

  • Cem Exeter: Topsham Cemetery, Elm Grove Road, Topsham, Exeter, Devon EX3 OEJ. Chapel: 'Seats 60; light, airy and comforting atmosphere with lovely stained glass window.' Grounds: 'A typical small town cemetery.' 'Small site with old-established trees and nearby allotments make this a very tranquil spot' (John O'Callaghan). All other details as for Higher Cemetery above.

  • Cem Paignton: Paignton Cemetery, Colley End Road, Paignton (tel 01803 327768, e-mail: viviennefoster@torbay.gov.uk). Plot (100 years) incl. digging and burial £536 (double for non-residents). They will accept home-made or cardboard coffins. Length of funeral service: 'As required.' Chapel: 'Seats 31; traditional church setting.' Grounds: 'Mature trees, sea views, sense of space.' Memorials: 'No kerbs, no wood, no metal.' 'Staff endeavour to make funerals as personal as possible' (Vivienne D. Foster).

  • Cem Plymouth: Efford Cemetery, Efford Road, Plymouth, Devon PL3 6NG (tel 01752 304857, e-mail: palmerg@plymouth.gov.uk). Plot (25 years) incl. digging and burial £831-50. They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins. Length of funeral service: 30 minutes (extra time can be booked for £23). Chapel: 'Seats 100; Edwardian.' Grounds: 'Formal, with some wooded areas.' Memorials: 'Approved natural stone only, with no kerbing and within size restrictions.' They have adopted the Charter for the Bereaved. 'We produce an advisory leaflet for families organising d-i-y funerals' (Mrs Aitchison).

  • Crem Plymouth: Efford Crematorium, Efford Road, Plymouth, Devon PL3 6NG (tel 01752 304857). Details as for Weston Mill below.

  • Cem Plymouth: Weston Mill Cemetery, Ferndale Road, Plymouth, Devon PL2 2EP (tel 01752 304837). Details as for Efford Cemetery above.

  • Crem Plymouth: Weston Mill Crematorium, Ferndale Road, Plymouth, Devon PL2 2EP (tel 01752 304837). Price: £222-50 (non-residents £253-50). Time allotted: 30 minutes (extra time can be booked for £23 per half hour). They will accept home-made, wicker or cardboard coffins. Chapel: 'Seats 100; 1920s, traditional.' Grounds: 'Secluded Garden of Rest within cemetery grounds.' They have adopted the Charter for the Bereaved. 'Experienced, caring staff' (Brian Howells).

  • Crem Poole: Poole Crematorium, Gravel Hill, Poole, Dorset BH17 9BQ (tel 01202 602582); run by Poole Borough Council. Price: £233. Time allotted: 20 minutes in a 30 minute period (extra time can be booked). They will accept home-made or cardboard coffins at the discretion of the registrar. Chapel: 'Established in 1986. It has disabled access and seating for 80, with room for 50 standing. There is an organist and a recorded music selection.' Grounds: 'A woodland area with drift planting'. 'We have a woodland scattering area themed to the four seasons, available free to users of the crematorium' (Mrs Sue Gotobed).

  • Cem South Bristol: South Bristol Cemetery, Bridgewater Road, Bedminster Down, Bristol BS13 7AS (tel 0117 9038330; e-mail: simon_westbrook@bristol-city.gov.uk); run by Bristol City Council. Plot incl. digging and burial £265. They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins and body bags or shrouds. Chapel: 'Seats 100 people.' Grounds: 'Open plan, with picturesque views.' Memorials: 'We try to maintain a flexible approach.' They have adopted the Charter for the Bereaved (Simon Westbrook).

  • Crem South Bristol: South Bristol Crematorium, Bridgewater Road, Bedminster Down, Bristol BS13 7AS (tel 0117 9038330; e-mail: simon_westbrook@bristol-city.gov.uk); run by Bristol City Council. Price: £260. They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins and body bags or shrouds. Chapel: 'Seats 100 people.' Grounds: 'Open plan, with picturesque views.' They have adopted the Charter for the Bereaved (Simon Westbrook).

  • Cem Tavistock: Tavistock Cemetery, 119 Plymouth Road, Tavistock, Devon PL19 8BY (tel 01822 612799). Plot ('perpetuity') incl. digging and burial £165-50 (£344-50 extra for non-residents). There is a chapel. Grounds: 'The entry to the cemetery is through a large archway, with a view to the chapel along an avenue of trees. There are many mature trees and shrubs.' Memorials: '18" local granite boulder-type headstone are used.' They have adopted the Charter for the Bereaved (Douglas Parkhouse).

  • Cem Thornbury: Thornbury Cemetery, Kington Lane, Thornbury, South Gloucestershire (tel 01454 412103; e-mail: towncouncil@thornburytown.freeserve.co.uk). Plot (50 years) incl. digging and burial £265 (£530 for non0residents). Maintenance: £27-50 to £36-75 p.a. They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins and body bags or shrouds. Length of funeral service: No limit. Chapel: 'Small and intimate.' Grounds: 'Very well-maintained in rural surroundings.' Memorials: Designs are subject to approval as being 'appropriate.' No kerbing. 'One of the best kept cemeteries in the West of England. A woodland burial ground is under consideration. 'We are working towards adopting the Charter for the Bereaved' (G. W. H. Jackson).

  • Cem Torquay: Torquay Cemetery, Hele Road, Torquay, Devon TQ2 7QG (tel 01803 327768; e-mail: vivienne.foster@torbay.gov.uk); run by Torbay Council. Plot (100 years) incl. digging and burial £536 (£1,072 for non-residents). They will accept home-made or cardboard coffins. Length of funeral service: 'As required.' Chapel: 'Modern, churchlike.'. Grounds: 'Mature trees, clear views.' Memorials: 'No kerbs, no wood, no metal.' They have adopted the Charter for the Bereaved. 'Staff endeavour to make funerals as personal as possible. A woodland burial area is at the very earliest stages of planning' (Vivienne D. Foster).

  • Crem Torquay: Torquay Crematorium, Hele Road, Torquay, Devon (tel 01803 327768 or 329977; e-mail: vivienne.foster@torbay.gov.uk); run by Torbay Council. Price: £230. Time allotted: 25 minutes (extra time can be booked without charge). They will accept home-made or cardboard coffins. Chapel: 'Modern non-denominational with moveable seating.' Grounds: 'Set at the top of a hill. Tree-lined drive approach surrounded by lawns and gardens.' They have adopted the Charter for the Bereaved (Vivienne D. Foster).

  • Cem Weston-super-Mare: Ebdon Road Cemetery, Ebdon Road, Worle, Weston-super-Mare, North Somerset BS22 9NY (tel 01934 511717); run by the North Somerset Council. Administers branch cemeteries at Milton Road, Clevedon, and Portishead. Double plot (80 years) incl. digging and burial £575 (double for non-residents). Subject to inspection, they will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins and body bags or shrouds. Length of funeral service: 30 minutes in chapel, no time limit at graveside. Chapel: See crematorium chapel below. Grounds: 'Attractive, well-maintained grounds with farmland on two sides.' Memorials: 'Within size restrictions.' 'Will do their utmost to facilitate special requests.' For details on plans for a woodland burial facility see The Natural Death Centre's list of Woodland Burial Sites (Paul Wheeler).

  • Crem Weston-super-Mare: Weston-super-Mare Crematorium, Ebdon Road, Worle, Weston-super-Mare, North West Somerset BS22 9NY (tel 01934 511717). Price: £260 (extra time can be booked for £130). Time allotted: 20 minutes for the service, ten minutes for entry and exit (extra time can be booked). They will accept cardboard coffins. The crematorium opened in 1966. Chapel: 'Seats 75.' Grounds: 'Set in attractive well-maintained grounds with farmland on two sides.' 'Staff will do their utmost to facilitate special requests' (Paul Wheeler).

  • Crem Weymouth: Weymouth Crematorium, Quibo Lane, Weymouth, Dorset DT4 0RR (tel 01305 786984; fax 01305 767 804); run by the Weymouth and Portland Borough Council. Price: £237. Time allotted: 30 minutes (extra time can be booked for £22-10). They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins. Chapel: 'Church-like - seating 80 people.' Grounds: 'Large, lawned Gardens of Remembrance with trees and rose beds.' 'Being a relatively quiet crematorium we can spend time on details and go out of our way to meet the family wishes.' They have adopted the Charter for the Bereaved (Ian Morton).

  • Cem Yeovil: Yeovil Cemetery, Preston Road, Yeovil, Somerset (tel 01935 76718 or 01935 476718); run by the Yeovil Cemetery and Crematorium Committee. Plot (75 years) incl. digging and burial £417 (£834 for non-residents) Maintenance: £25 p.a., for basic upkeep; £12 extra for twice-yearly planting. They will accept home-made or cardboard coffins and body bags or shrouds. Length of funeral service: No limit. Chapel: 'It is in keeping with the cemetery, with seating for 50 people and a ramp for disabled access.' Grounds: 'Formal.' They have adopted the Charter for the Bereaved (Joy Coombs).

  • Crem Yeovil: Yeovil Crematorium, Bunford Lane, Yeovil, Somerset (tel 01935 476718); run by the Yeovil Cemetery and Crematorium Committee. Price: £210. Time allotted: 20 minutes in a 30 minute period (extra time may be booked for £102-50). They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins and body bags or shrouds, if contacted prior to the cremation. Chapel: 'It has a stained glass window with seating for 70 people; also disabled access and a braille box for the blind.' Grounds: 'Set in a 10-acre site.' They have adopted the Charter for the Bereaved (Joy Coombs).

    South

    Comprising Wiltshire, Berkshire, Surrey, Kent, Hampshire, West Sussex, East Sussex.

  • Cem Arundel: Arundel Cemetery, Ford Road, Arundel, West Sussex. Grounds: 'Attractive view.' No chapel. Memorials: 'No restrictions.' All other details as for Littlehampton Cemetery below.

  • Cem Basingstoke: Worting Road Cemetery, Worting Road, Basingstoke, Hampshire RG21 8YZ (tel 01256 321737). Plot (75 years) incl. digging and burial £233 (double for non-residents). They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins and body bags or shrouds. Length of funeral service: 'At least an hour (and as long as time allows).' Chapel: 'Mainly Old English. Grounds.' Memorials: 'Lawn sections - headstone only up to 3' high (up to 5' for additional fee); also size restrictions on kerb sections.' They have not adopted the Charter for the Bereaved 'but one based on this Charter is due to be agreed shortly.' 'Our cemetery is well kept and excels in its service to people, its attitudes, its practices and its prices (which are usually close to the cheapest in Hampshire' (Roger Fear).

  • Crem Basingstoke: Basingstoke Crematorium, Manor Farm, Stockbridge Road, North Waltham, Basingstoke RG25 2BA (tel 01256 398 783); run by SCI (UK). Price: £260 Time allotted: 45 minutes (an extra 45 minutes can be booked for £130). They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins and may consider body bags or shrouds. Chapel: 'A brand-new chapel with a PA system and seating for 120 people (100 seated and 20 standing).' Grounds: 'Also very new with a rose garden and an ornamental lake.' 'We have not officially adopted the Charter for the Bereaved but we follow the spirit of it' (Maureen Waddell).

  • Crem Beckenham: Beckenham Crematorium, Elmers End Road Beckenham, Kent BR3 4TD (tel 020 8658 8775; fax: 020 8663 3242); run by SCI (UK). Price: £296. Time allotted: 30 minutes (no limit at graveside). They will accept home-made or cardboard coffins, and will consider wicker coffins. Chapel: 'A very old-fashioned, Victorian chapel, with seating for 70 people, and room for 100, standing.' Grounds: '32 acres of land, with two mausoleums at the entrance, of which 5 acres are for a Garden of Remembrance and the rest are for graves.' 'Services are available on both Saturdays and Sundays. There are very few restrictions and we will offer whatever the families want so long as it's legal' (Mr Nashfold).

  • Cem Beckenham: Beckenham Cemetery, Elmers End Road, Beckenham, Kent BR3 4TD (tel 020 8658 8775; fax 020 8663 3242); run by SCI (UK). Plot (100 years) incl. burial and digging £560. Time allotted: 30 minutes (no limit at graveside). They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins and body bags or shrouds. All other details as for Beckenham Crematorium above.

  • Cem Bognor: Bognor Cemetery, Town Cross Avenue, Bognor Regis, West Sussex. All other details as for Littlehampton Cemetery below.

  • Cem Bognor: Chalcraft Cemetery, Chalcraft Lane, Bognor Regis, West Sussex. Grounds: 'Attractive views and peaceful setting.' No chapel. Memorials: 'Lawn-type.' All other details as for Littlehampton Cemetery below.

  • *** Crem Brighton: Woodvale Crematorium, Lewes Road, Brighton, East Sussex BN2 3QB (tel 01273 604020); run by Brighton Borough Council. Price: from £146. Time allotted: 45 minutes (extra time can be booked without charge). They will accept home-made or cardboard coffins. Chapels: 'One consecrated church and one non-denominational, both with movable seating, in a Victorian flint building.' Grounds: 'Pleasantly landscaped with rockery, water courses, gardens with flower beds, benches etc. Awarded Charter Mark 1994 and 1997.' 'Services are tailored to meet individual requirements and assistance will be given to families organising funerals without funeral directors. A free self-help guide is also available. Full facilities for the disabled are provided' (Stephen Horlock). Woodvale also runs a woodland burial ground overlooking Brighton (see The Natural Death Centre's list of Woodland Burial Sites for details). Winner of the New Natural Death Handbook Award 2000 for the Best Crematorium in the South.

  • Cem Canterbury: Canterbury City Cemetery, Westgate Court Avenue, Canterbury, Kent; run by Cemeteries Registrar, Architecture & Engineering, Canterbury City Council, Military Road, Canterbury, Kent CT1 1YW (tel 01227 862490; fax 862020; e-mail: leita.honey@canterbury.gov.uk; web: www.canterbury.gov.uk). The council runs two other cemeteries - Herne Bay Cemetery, Canterbury Road, Herne, Herne Bay; and Whitstable Cemetery, Mill Strood Road, Whitstable - for both of which most of the following details also apply. Plot (50 years) incl. digging and burial £180 (double for non-residents). They will accept home-made or cardboard coffins. Length of funeral service: '30 minutes in chapel, 20 to 30 minutes going to and being beside the grave.' Chapel: 'Gothic but warm and well decorated.' Grounds: 'Tree arbours and colourful bedding.' Memorials: 'No restrictions except on lawn and green burial graves. We welcome customer-designed stone memorials as long as safely fixed. A newly planted tree can be dedicated with a plaque for £155, covering a 20-year period.' 'Direct, friendly, helpful service providing explanatory advice and information' (Leita Honey). The cemetery contains a small green burial area (see The Natural Death Centre's list of Woodland Burial Sites for details).

  • Crem Chatham: Medway Crematorium, Robin Hood Lane (Upper), Chatham, Kent ME5 9QU (tel 01634 861639; e-mail: paul.edwards@medway.gov.uk). Run by Medway Council. Price: £230 (double for non-residents). Time allotted: 40 minutes between services. They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins. 'Body bags and shrouds may be accepted by arrangement'. Chapel: 'Churchlike, with movable seating for 60-70 people.' Grounds: 'Semi-formal rose gardens and woodland.' 'We aim to meet all cultural, religious and personal preferences where possible' (Paul Edwards).

  • Cem Crawley: Snell Hatch Cemetery, The Dingle, West Green, Crawley, West Sussex (tel 01293 528744 ext 2503); run by Crawley Borough Council. Plot (50 years) incl. digging and burial £336 (double for non-residents). They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins and body bags or shrouds. No chapel. 'Helpful and caring' (Barbara Conley).

  • Crem Crawley: Surrey and Sussex Crematorium, Balcombe Road, Crawley RH10 3NQ (tel 01293 882345); the parent company is SCI. Price: £296. Time allotted: 30 minutes (extra time can be booked for £148). They will accept home-made or cardboard coffins. Chapels: 'Church-like, 1950s architecture.' 1990. Grounds: 'Attractive woodland glades' (Peter Mitchell).

  • Cem Dorking: Dorking Cemetery, Reigate Road, Dorking, Surrey (tel 01306 879299; e-mail: carole.broug@mole-valley.gov.uk); run by Mole Valley District Council. Plot (50 years) incl. digging and burial £540 (trebled for non-residents). They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins. Length of funeral service: 'No limits.' Chapel: 'Built in 1855 of local materials, a fine example of Victorian Gothic architecture.' Grounds: 'The cemetery contains native and exotic trees and is sited at the foot of Box Hill, the famous Surrey landmark in the beautiful Mole Valley.' Memorials: 'Headstone up to 3' high.' 'An area of peace and tranquillity little changed since 1855' (Carole Brough).

  • Cem Eastbourne: Langney Cemetery, Hide Hollow, Langney, Eastbourne, East Sussex BN23 8AE (tel 01323 766536; fax 01323 760637; e-mail: kendry@eastbourne.gov.uk). Plot (75 years) incl. digging and burial £750. They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins and suitable shrouds. Length of funeral service: No time limit. Chapel: 'Victorian, seats 45, with tape and CD facilities available.' Grounds: 'Parkland with mature trees.' Memorials: 'Regulations on request.' 'In 1995 the service was awarded a Charter Mark for excellent service to the public' (Kenneth Dry). For details of the woodland burial area, see The Natural Death Centre's list of Woodland Burial Sites.

  • Cem Eastbourne: Ocklynge Cemetery, Willingdon Road, Eastbourne, East Sussex BN21 1TL. Grounds: 'Downland cemetery.' All other details as for Eastbourne Langney Cemetery above.

  • Crem Eastbourne: Eastbourne Crematorium, Hide Hollow, Langney, Eastbourne, East Sussex BN23 8AE (tel 01323 761093; fax 01323 760637; e-mail: kendry@eastbourne.gov.uk). Price: £250. Time allotted: 30 minutes within a 45 minute period (an extra 45 minute period can be booked for £60). They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins. Chapels: 'Both chapels were opened in 1960 and have CD and tape facilities and induction loops and facilities for those with disabilities. The main chapel seats 80, the family chapel seats 30.' Grounds: 'Designed to have the effect of rolling Sussex downland.' 'In 1995 the service was awarded a Charter Mark for excellent service to the public' (Kenneth Dry).

  • *** Cem Forest Row: Forest Row Cemetery, Priory Road, Forest Row, East Sussex (tel 01342 822661); run by Forest Row Parish Council, Community Centre, Hartfield Road, Forest Row, East Sussex RH18 5DZ. Plot (50 years) incl. digging and burial £151 (double for non-residents). No maintenance charge. They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins and shrouds or body bags. Length of funeral service: 'No limit.' Chapel: 'Stone, church-like.' Grounds: 'Peaceful surroundings, well maintained.' Memorials: 'We allow all sorts - wood, rocks, rough carvings, etc, although approval by committee required.' (Gwen Pritchett). Winner of the New Natural Death Handbook Award 2000 for the Best Cemetery in the South.

  • Crem Guildford: Guildford Crematorium, Broadwater, New Pond Road, Godalming, Surrey, GU7 3DB (tel 01483 444711; fax 01483 532 637); run by Guildford Borough Council. Price: £230. Time allotted: 30 minutes (extra time can be booked for £115). They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins. Chapel: 'Modern, non-denominational, with seating for 100 people.' Grounds: 'Open-fronted, well-maintained.' They follow the spirit of the Charter for the Bereaved (Keith Hendry).

  • Cem Hastings: Hastings Borough Cemetery, The Ridge, Hastings, East Sussex TN34 2AE (tel 01424 781302). Plot (50 years) incl. digging, burial and use of chapel £467. They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins. Length of funeral service: 20 minutes (extra time can be booked for £45 per 20 minutes). Chapel: Church-like. Grounds: As Crem below. Memorials: 'Headstones only, within size restrictions.' 'Unrivalled views' (George Ford). There is a woodland burial area in a quiet corner of the site (see The Natural Death Centre's list of Woodland Burial Sites for details).

  • Crem Hastings: Hastings Crematorium, 234 The Ridge, Hastings, East Sussex TN34 2AE (tel 01424 781302). Price: £225. Time allotted: 20 minutes (extra time can be booked for £45). They will accept home-made or cardboard coffins. Chapel: 1850s. Grounds: 'Trees, lawns and flower beds in 80 acres of cemetery grounds.' 'On a hillside overlooking Rye Bay to the East, and the Sussex countryside to the North and West' (George Ford).

  • Crem Isle of Wight: Isle of Wight Crematorium, Station Lane, Whippingham, East Cowes, Isle of Wight PO32 6NJ (tel 01983 882288 fax; 01983 883010); run by the Isle of Wight Council. Price: £286. Time allotted: 30 minutes (extra time can be booked for £60). They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins. Chapel: 'A typical 1960s chapel with room for 120 people.' Grounds: 'Rural, wooded, peaceful.' They are in the process of adopting the Charter for the Bereaved (Mrs B Thompson).

  • Cem Littlehampton: Littlehampton Cemetery, Horsham Road, Littlehampton, West Sussex; run by Arun District Council, Bognor Town Hall, Clarence Road, Bognor Regis, West Sussex PO21 1LD (tel 01243 863141). Plot (75 years) incl. digging and burial £237 (£474 extra for non-residents). They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins, or shrouds or body bags. Length of funeral service: 45 minutes . Chapel: 'Plain.' Grounds: 'Daffodils and crocuses are an attraction.' Memorials: 'Restrictions only on lawn section.' (Sheila Berry).

  • Cem Maidstone: Sutton Road Cemetery, Sutton Road, Maidstone, Kent (tel 01622 738172). Plot (100 years) incl. digging and burial £380. They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins and shrouds. Length of funeral service: 90 minutes (extra time may be booked without charge). Chapel: 'Built in 1850, with typical gargoyles, stained glass, spire, etc.' Grounds: '49 acres of parkland with mature trees and a variety of lawn and general sections.' Memorials: 'Lawn section allows for headstone only, general section permits headstone, kerbs and vase - both are subject to size restrictions.' 'We are working towards being able to adopt the Charter for the Bereaved. Good location, experienced staff and reasonable prices. A tree memorial may be sponsored, without plaques, and not adjacent to the grave' (Tim Jefferson).

  • Crem Maidstone: Vintners Park Crematorium, Bearsted Road, Maidstone, Kent ME14 5LG (tel 01622 738172). Price: £220. Time allotted: 30 minutes (extra time can be booked for £69). They will accept cardboard coffins. Chapel: 'Modern, formal, bright, accommodating 80'. Grounds: 'Surrounded by a conservation area, with formal gardens and a woodside walk area.' 'We are working towards being able to adopt the Charter for the Bereaved.' Large, well-laid out, interesting' (Tim Jefferson).

  • Crem Morden: North East Surrey Crematorium, Lower Morden Lane, Morden, Surrey SM4 4NU (tel 020 8337 4835; fax 020 8337 8745; web: www.nes-crematorium.org.uk; e-mail: nescb.crematorium@talk21.com . Price: £230. Time allotted: 30 minutes (extra time can be booked for £70). They will accept cardboard or wicker coffins. Chapel: 'Converted late Victorian church.' Grounds: '400-yard, poplar-lined drive and 3.5 acres of gardens.' 'We have our own trained staff (no contractors) who take pride in their work and helping relatives' (J. E. Skinner).

  • Crem Portchester: Portchester Crematorium, Upper Cornaway Lane, Portchester, Hampshire PO16 8NE (tel 01329 822533); run by Portchester Crematorium Joint Committee. Price: £205. Time allotted: 30 minutes (extra time can be booked by negotiation). They will accept home-made or wicker coffins. Chapels: 'There are two chapels, one built in 1958 and one in the 1980s, both have organ music available at extra charge; they seat 80 and 44 people respectively.' Grounds: 'Natural gardens.' They have adopted the Charter for the Bereaved (J. Clark).

  • Cem Reading: Henley Road Cemetery, All Hallows Road, Caversham, Reading, Berkshire RG4 5LP (tel 0118 9472433 or 9474102). Plot (75 years) incl. digging and burial £625 (£676 extra for non-residents). They will accept home-made or cardboard coffins. Length of funeral service: '30 minutes (extra time £75 per half hour)'. Chapel: 'Same chapels as for Reading crematorium. Grounds: 'No traffic noise, park and farmland to the rear, mansion on the hillside.' Memorials: 'Tablet and headstone size restrictions for new graves in Park Cemetery.' They provide seven pages of guidance notes for families arranging funerals without funeral directors. 'Graves are individually numbered, making finding graves very easy' (Mrs Ruth Winch).

  • Crem Reading: Reading Crematorium, All Hallows Road, Caversham, Reading, Berkshire RG4 5LP (tel 0118 9472433 or 9474102). Price: £235. Time allotted: 30 minutes (extra time can be booked for £75). They will accept home-made or cardboard coffins. Chapels: 'Large 1930s chapel is not church-like, and seats 108 with excellent organ and interior of dome visible. Small, modern brick and pine chapel seats 26.' Grounds: 'Set in centre of 50-acre cemetery, with 5-acre Gardens of Remembrance secluded by tall hedges.' They provide seven pages of guidance notes for families arranging funerals without funeral directors. 'We aim to meet all cultural, religious and personal preferences where possible' (Mrs Ruth Winch).

  • Cem Sutton: Sutton Cemetery, Alcorn Close, off Sutton Common Road, Sutton, Surrey SM3 9PX (tel 020 8644 9437). Plot (50 years) incl. digging and burial £566. Maintenance: £82. They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins and body bags or shrouds. Length of funeral service: 60 minutes between bookings (extra time free with sufficient notice). Chapel: 'Victorian Gothic, warm and intimate with seating for 50-60.' Grounds: 'Well-maintained, secure and pleasant site.' Memorials: 'Approved natural stone only, within size restrictions.' 'Experienced and caring staff with our priorities given to the bereaved and the funeral service. Grave site viewing and selection very welcome - by appointment please' (Mr Don Ward).

  • Crem Trowbridge: West Wiltshire Crematorium, Devizes Road, Semington, Trowbridge BA14 6HL (tel 01380 871101). Run by Crematoria Management Ltd. Price: £235. Time allotted: 30 minutes (no charge for extra time). They will accept home-made or cardboard coffins. Chapel: 'Natural stone. Comfortable.' Grounds: 'Open countryside' (P. J. Wilson).

  • Cem Warlingham: Greenlawn Memorial Park cemetery, Chelsham Road, Surrey; run by the London Borough of Croydon, Cemeteries and Crematorium Office, Mitcham Road, Croydon CR9 3AT (tel 020 8684 3877; e-mail: mark.healy@croydon.gov.uk). Plot (50 years) incl. digging and burial £698 (no extra for non-residents). Maintenance: Not available. They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins and body bags or shrouds. Length of funeral service: '90 minutes (extra time may be feasible at no extra cost).' No chapel. Grounds: 'A lawn cemetery established as a park.' Memorials: 'Only bronze memorials laid flush to the ground are permitted.' They have adopted the Charter for the Bereaved. 'This is an unusual cemetery based on the American lawns concept and maintained to the standards of a park. A section has been set aside for use by our Muslim community. Dedicated and responsible staff with an innovative approach to customer service' (Mark Healy).

  • Cem Woking: The Brookwood Cemetery, Cemetery Pales, Woking, Surrey GU24 OBL (tel 01483 472222; fax 01483 2223); run by the Woking Borough Council. Plot (50 years) incl. digging and burial £1,450 (prices may vary according to the plot). Maintenance: £150 p.a. They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins and body bags or shrouds. Length of funeral service: As long as needed. Chapel: 'The Chapel seats up to 50 people.' Grounds: 'Vast 420 acre cemetery with beautiful trees, many areas overgrown, Victorian monuments.' Memorials: 'Virtually any design of memorial is accepted up to 3ft.' 'All graves remain undisturbed for ever, there being so much unused land at Brookwood Cemetery. It is the one of the oldest cemeteries not to use old ground.' For details of the woodland burial ground see The Natural Death Centre's list of Woodland Burial Sites (R. H. Guney).

  • Cem Wokingham: Easthampstead Park Cemetery, Nine Mile Ride, Wokingham, Berkshire RG40 3DW (tel 01344 420314; e-mail: cem.crem@bracknell-forest.gov.uk); run by Bracknell Forest Borough Council. Plot (75 years) incl. digging and burial £319 (£638 extra for non-residents). Maintenance: No charge. They will accept home-made, wicker or cardboard coffins, and body bags or shrouds. Length of funeral service: 30 minutes (extra time can be booked for £120). Chapel: 'Modern chapel with wood panelling, seating 98 people. Organ, CD and tape machine.' Grounds: 'Set in 22 acres of landscaped grounds, with pergolas and hanging baskets separating the lawned and traditional sections.' Memorials: 'Maximum height 3'.' 'Charter Mark winners in 1996. We provide a staff member at every burial to oversee the funeral. The cemetery is set in Berkshire countryside. It is of a lawned style, offering traditional memorials and flat tablets, with a woodland burial area from June 2000' (see The Natural Death Centre's list of Woodland Burial Sites for details) (Gary Fewkes).

  • Crem Wokingham: Easthampstead Park Crematorium, Nine Mile Ride, Wokingham, Berkshire RG40 3DW (tel 01344 420314; e-mail: cem.crem@bracknell-forest.gov.uk); run by Bracknell Forest Borough Council. Price: £250. Time allotted: 30 minutes (extra time can be booked for £120). They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins and will consider body bags or shrouds. Chapels: 'Modern and well-lit, seating 98 and 16 respectively.' Grounds: 'Set in 22 acres of Berkshire countryside. Extensive memorialisation available, Charter Mark winners in 1996' (Gary Fewkes).

  • Cem Worthing: Findon Cemetery, Findon By-Pass, Findon, Worthing, West Sussex. Grounds: 'Attractive views and peaceful setting.' No chapel. Memorials: 'No restrictions.' All other details as for Littlehampton Cemetery above.

  • Crem Worthing: Worthing Crematorium, Horsham Road, Findon, West Sussex BN14 0RQ (tel 01903 872678; e-mail: Worthing.Crematorium@Virgin.net). Price: £251. Time allotted: 40 minutes (extra time can be booked for £25). They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins and body bags or shrouds. Chapel: '1960s, Swedish-style, non-denominational.' Grounds: 'Wildlife sanctuary.' 'We have not officially adopted the Charter for the Bereaved but we do work to it' (Ian Rudkin).

    Greater London region

    Including old Middlesex. See also South region.

  • Cem: Alperton Cemetery, Clifford Road, Alperton HA0 1AF (tel 020 8902 2385; fax 020 8795 0273; e-mail: langford@brent.gov.uk; web: www.mortbase.co.uk); run by the London Borough of Brent. Plot (50 years) incl. digging and burial £1,500 (£750 extra for non-residents). Maintenance 'Nil. £82 if grave to be planted with flowering plants twice yearly.' They will accept cardboard or home-made coffins, wicker coffins or shrouds. Length of funeral service: 'As much time as required.' No chapel. Grounds: 'A very pretty cemetery, bordering a canal and a golf course.' Memorials: 'Bronze plaques only in the lawn cemetery.' They have adopted the Charter for the Bereaved. 'Fees are fair and in line with competing cemeteries. Very peaceful, with an abundance of wildlife.' (Bob Langford).

  • Cem: Bedfont Cemetery, Bedfont Road, Bedfont, Middlesex; run by the London Borough of Hounslow, Community Initiatives Partnership, Civic Centre, Lampton Road, Hounslow, Middlesex TW3 4DN (tel 020 8583 4677). Plot (60 years) incl. digging and burial £473 (treble for non-residents). Maintenance: £52. Length of funeral service: 45 minutes (no charge for additional time). No chapel. Memorials: 'Few restrictions in traditional areas; lawn areas are fairly restrictive' (Alan Rice).

  • Cem: New Brentford Cemetery, Sutton Road, Hounslow; run by the London Borough of Hounslow. Details as for Bedfont Cemetery above.

  • Cem: Camberwell New Cemetery, Brenchley Gardens, London SE23 3RD (tel 020 7639 3121). Plot (50 years) incl. digging and burial £919 (£2,750-50 for non-residents). They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins. Length of funeral service: 30 minutes (extra time can be booked for £50). Chapel: 'Church-like.' Grounds: 'Formal gardens.' Memorials: 'Headstone only. Natural stone, within size restrictions.' (Terry Connor). There is now a woodland burial area within Nunhead Cemetery, Linden Grove, London SE15 (run from Camberwell New Cemetery) - for details see The Natural Death Centre's list of Woodland Burial Sites.

  • Cem: Carpenders Park Lawn Cemetery, Oxhey Lane, Nr Watford; run by the London Borough of Brent, Brent Cemetery Service, Clifford Road, Alperton HA0 1AF (tel 020 8902 2385; fax 020 8795 0273; e-mail: langford@brent.gov.ukA HREF="http://www.mortbase.co.uk">www.mortbase.co.uk). Plot (50 years) incl. digging and burial £1,500 (£750 extra for non-residents). Maintenance 'Nil. £82 if grave to be planted with flowering plants twice yearly.' They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins and shrouds. Length of funeral service: 'As much time as required.' No chapel. Grounds: 'Countryside with mature woodland, a lake and a pond.' Memorials: 'Bronze plaques only in the lawn cemetery.' They have adopted the Charter for the Bereaved. 'Fees are fair and in line with competing cemeteries. Very peaceful, with an abundance of wildlife. ' (Bob Langford). There is also a one-acre woodland burial area within the cemetery (see The Natural Death Centre's list of Woodland Burial Sites for the details).

  • Cem: Charlton Cemetery, Cemetery Lane, London SE7 8DZ; run by the London Borough of Greenwich, Greenwich Direct Services, Sun Yard, Archery Road, Eltham, London SE9 1HA (tel 020 8856 0100). Plot (50 years) incl. digging and burial £516 (£1,831 extra for non-residents). Maintenance £34-55 p.a., planting £69-10 p.a. Length of funeral service: 20 minutes (extra time £15 for 10 minutes). Chapel: 'Small Victorian chapel with original fixtures and fittings.' Grounds: 'Well maintained.' Memorials: '2' 6" wide by 4' high; kerbs 6' 6" by 2' 6".' 'No new graves except in the children's section.' (Dawn Squires).

  • Cem: Chingford Mount Cemetery, Old Church Road, Chingford, London E4 6ST (tel 020 8524 5030; fax 020 8523 7944); run by the London Borough of Waltham Forest. Plot (75 years) incl. digging and burial £745 (new graves for residents only; double fees for non-residents in existing graves). They will accept wicker or wooden home-made coffins. Length of funeral service: 30 minutes (extra time can be booked without charge). No chapel. Grounds: 'Large, older cemetery with lots of trees.' Memorials: 'Lawn-type headstones only, within size restrictions.' 'We will accommodate all the wishes of all families to the best of our abilities within the limits of cemetery regulations' (John Billson

  • Cem: Chiswick 'New' Cemetery, Staveley Road, Chiswick; run by the London Borough of Hounslow. Details as for Bedfont Cemetery above.

  • Cem: Chiswick 'Old' Cemetery, Corney Road, Chiswick; run by the London Borough of Hounslow. Details as for Bedfont Cemetery

  • Cem: City of London Cemetery, Aldersbrook Road, London E12 5DQ (tel 020 8530 2151; fax 020 8530 1563; e-mail: ian.hussein@corpoflondon.gov.uk); run by the Corporation of London. Plot (50 years) incl. digging and burial £1,136. Memorials: 'Lawn-type only, in hard stone and within size restrictions.' 'Nine options for burial ranging from catacomb and vault to lawn and woodland' (Lynn Heath). See woodland burial entry in The Natural Death Centre's list of Woodland Burial Sites. Other details as for City of London Crematorium (see next entry

  • Crem: City of London Crematorium, Aldersbrook Road, London E12 5DQ (tel 020 8530 2151; fax 020 8530 1563; e-mail: ian.hussein@corpoflondon.gov.uk); run by the Corporation of London. Price: £266. Time allotted: 45 minutes in the traditional chapel, 30 minutes in the modern chapels (extra time can be booked without charge). They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins and body bags or shrouds (subject to approval). Chapels: 'Three chapels, the traditional one, built in Gothic style, has seating for a hundred people; the two modern multi-faith chapels accommodate 200 mourners (100 seated). Each of the three has a sound system, induction loop, organ, tape and CD facilities.' Grounds: 'The grounds and buildings are English Heritage Grade 2 listed and security patrolled. 32-acre memorial garden, within a cemetery of 200 acres in all.' They have adopted the Charter for the Bereaved. 'Renowned for its not-for-profit service and its care of the bereaved' (Lynn Heath).

  • Cem: Croydon Cemetery, Mitcham Road, Croydon CR9 3AT (tel 020 8684 3877; e-mail: mark.healy@croydon.gov.uk); run by the London Borough of Croydon, which also administers the Greenlawn Memorial Park cemetery in Surrey (see 'Warlingham' in South region above). Plot (50 years) incl. digging and burial £698 (no extra for non-residents). Maintenance: £42. They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins and body bags or shrouds. Length of funeral service: '90 minutes (extra time may be feasible at no extra cost).' Chapel: 'Traditional with modern music options.' Grounds: 'Traditional cemetery and service chapel.' Memorials: 'Full memorials welcomed. No restrictions.' They have adopted the Charter for the Bereaved. 'Centrally located and aiming to meet the needs of the whole community. Dedicated and responsible staff with an innovative approach to customer service' (Mark Healy)

  • Crem: Croydon Crematorium, Mitcham Road, Croydon CR9 3AT (tel 020 8684 3877; e-mail: mark.healy@croydon.gov.uk); run by the London Borough of Croydon. Price: £255. Time allotted: 30 minutes (extra time can be booked without charge). They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins and body bags or shrouds. Chapels: 'One churchlike and one modern.' Grounds: 'Landscaped, with award-winning water gardens'. They have adopted the Charter for the Bereaved. 'A caring and professional service for all members of the community who are bereaved' (Mark Healy)

  • Cem: Mill East Finchley Cemetery, East End Road, London N2 0RZ (tel 020 8567 0913; e-mail: hanwell@cemcrem.com); managed on behalf of the City of Westminster by Cemetery Management Ltd (based at Hanwell Cemetery, see above). Plot (75 years) incl. digging and burial £825 (£1,440 extra for non-residents). They will accept home-made and cardboard coffins. Length of funeral service: '30 minutes in chapel and then 30 minutes at graveside - extra time £52 per hour.' Chapel: 'Victorian, totally refurbished inside in 1992.' Grounds: 'Monumental memorials, Victorian architecture, exclusive location.' Memorials: 'Up to 2' 6" in width, 3' in height.' 'Interesting architecture' (James Evans).

  • Cem: East London Cemetery (Company), Grange Road, Plaistow, London E13 OHB (tel 020 7476 5109; e-mail: supt@elond-cemetery.demon.co.uk; web: www.elond-cemetery.demon.co.uk). Plot (50 years) incl. digging and burial £1,100 (no extra for non-residents). They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins. Length of funeral service: 30 minutes. Chapel: 'Traditional church, refurbished 1999 to include central heating, CD sound system, new seating, etc.' Grounds: 'Intimate, park-style atmosphere in the centre of the East End of London.' Memorials: 'No lawn section. Traditional memorials only. There are a number of regulations concerning these. Memorial benches are also available for dedication.' They have adopted the Charter for the Bereaved (Paul Mallatratt).

  • Crem: East London Crematorium, Grange Road, Plaistow, London E13 OHB (tel 020 7476 5109; e-mail: supt@elond-cemetery.demon.co.uk; web: www.elond-cemetery.demon.co.uk); run by the East London Cemetery Company. Price: £220. Time allotted: 30 minutes (extra time can be booked - £75 charged 'during busy periods'). They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins. Chapels: 'Modern, non-denominational, very comfortable. Recently refurbished. Seating - flexible arrangement if desired.' Grounds: 'See our web site' (Paul Mallatratt

  • Cem: East Sheen Cemetery, Sheen Road, Richmond, Surrey TW10 5BJ (tel 020 8876 4511; fax 020 8878 8118). Administers similar cemeteries in Hampton, Mortlake, Teddington and Twickenham. Plot (50 years) incl. digging and burial £790 (£2,370 for non-residents). They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins (subject to approval of cemeteries manager). Length of funeral service: As long as required. Chapel: 'Seats 80; non-denominational.' Grounds: 'Rural in an urban environment.' Memorials: 'Natural stone, within size restrictions. Can be either lawn-style or traditional kerbed.' 'We provide assistance and cardboard coffins (for £121 plus VAT)' (Natasha Mahon-Smith).

  • Cem: Edmonton Cemetery, Church Street, Edmonton, London N9 9HP (tel 020 8360 2157); managed on behalf of the London Borough of Enfield. Plot (100 years) incl. digging and burial £701 (£1,333 extra for non-residents). Length of funeral service: 30 minutes (extra time may only be booked if the chapel is used, for an additional fee of £33). Chapel: 'Victorian - Porte cochere.' Grounds: 'Well-kept.' Memorials: 'Lawn type, back to back or single rows; traditional head stones and kerbs on other older sections.' 'The cemetery is extremely well-kept and the staff have a caring attitude. We have a very low number of complaints' (Mrs M Vetere

  • Cem: Eltham Cemetery, Rochester Way, Eltham, London SE9 2RF; run by the London Borough of Greenwich, Greenwich Direct Services, Sun Yard, Archery Road, Eltham, London SE9 1HA (tel 020 8856 0100). Plot (50 years) incl. digging and burial £516 (£1,831 extra for non-residents). Maintenance £34-55 p.a., planting £69-10 p.a. Length of funeral service: 20 minutes (extra time £15 for 10 minutes). Chapel: 'Brick Gothic.' Grounds: 'A flat site with trees and plants on the edge of the pathways and edges of the grounds - which also contain Eltham Crematorium. Well maintained.' Memorials: '2' 6" wide by 4' high; kerbs 6' 6" by 2' 6"' (Dawn Squires

  • Crem: Enfield Crematorium, Great Cambridge Road, Enfield, London EN1 4DS (tel 020 8363 8324); run by the London Borough of Haringdey. Price: £235. Time allotted: 20 minutes (extra time can be booked for £100). They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins; 'shrouds and body bags would be considered'. Chapels: 'Pre-war, red brick, both seating 100 people.' Grounds: 'Attractive rock and water gardens'. 'The best possible service given the very restricted budget available.' They are currently in the process of adopting the Charter for the Bereaved (Nigel Morgan).

  • Cem: Feltham Cemetery, Ashford Road, Feltham; run by the London Borough of Hounslow. Details as for Bedfont Cemetery above

  • Cem: Hanwell Cemetery, 38 Uxbridge Road, London W7 3PP (tel 020 8567 0913; e-mail: hanwell@cemcrem.com); managed on behalf of the City of Westminster by Cemetery Management Ltd. Plot (75 years) incl. digging and burial £710 (£1,190 extra for non-residents). They will accept home-made or cardboard coffins. Length of funeral service: '30 minutes in chapel and then 30 minutes at graveside - extra time £52 per hour.' Chapel: 'Renovated in 1994. Hammer beam roof.' Grounds: 'Grand avenue of cedars lining the main drive, grounds kept to a high standard.' Memorials: 'Up to 2' 6" in width, 3' in height.' 'There are always staff available 365 days a year to help with queries and to provide a safe atmosphere for families' (James Evans).

  • Cem: Hatton Cemetery, Faggs Road, Feltham; run by the London Borough of Hounslow. Details as for Bedfont Cemetery above.

  • *** Crem: Hendon Crematorium, Holders Hill Road, London NW7 1NB (tel 020 8346 0657); run by the London Borough of Barnet. Price: £189. Time allotted: 45 minutes (extra time can be booked for £45). They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins and body bags or shrouds. Chapels: 'Two traditional chapels seating 75 and 55 people respectively.' Grounds: 'Country churchyard set in 40 acres of naturally wooded cemetery grounds.' 'Practical, sympathetic and sensible service to the recently bereaved' (Morris Salmon). Winner of the New Natural Death Handbook Award 2000 for the Best Crematorium in Lon

  • Cem: Highgate Cemetery, Swains Lane, London N6 6PJ (tel 020 8340 1834). Plot (70 years) incl. digging and burial £3,025. They will accept home-made or cardboard coffins. No chapel. Grounds: 'One of the most famous cemeteries in the world, with many eminent Victorians buried in grand style in a beautiful woodland setting.' Memorials: 'Any memorial installed must reflect some sympathy with Highgate's historic status.' 'As a privately-run charity, Highgate is able to offer a much more flexible service than most. For instance, within the limits imposed by limited space, we would arrange woodland burial on individual request' (Mr Richard Quirk).

  • Crem: Honor Oak Crematorium, Brockley Way, London SE23 3RD (tel 020 639 3121; fax 020 7732 4075); run by the London Borough of Southwark. Price: £233 (organist £26 extra). Time allotted: 30 minutes. They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins and body bags or shrouds. Chapel: 'A listed building in a Grecian style built in 1939, with seating for 100 people. Christian symbols can be covered if desired.' Grounds: 'Formal gardens, shrubbery, wooded area, Garden of Remembrance, sports field and cemetery.' 'The coffin is lowered on a catafalque to symbolise the lowering of a coffin in a grave.' They are in the process of adopting the Charter for the Bereaved (Terry Connor).

  • Cem: Hounslow Cemetery, Hanworth Road, Hounslow, Middlesex; run by the London Borough of Hounslow. Details as for Bedfont Cemetery above.

  • Cem: Isleworth Cemetery, Park Road, Isleworth, Middlesex; run by the London Borough of Hounslow. Details as for Bedfont Cemetery above

  • Crem: Islington Crematorium, High Road, East Finchley, London N2 9AG (tel 020 8883 1230; fax 020 8883 2784); run by the London Borough of Islington. Price: £205 (£25 extra with organ music). Time allotted: 30 minutes (extra time can be booked for £100). They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins. Chapel: 'A light and warm 1930s building, with movable seating for 85 people.' Grounds: 'Garden of Remembrance.' Memorials: 'Various forms of memorial are permissible.' 'Families are left to do their own thing.' The crematorium follow the guidelines of the Charter for the Bereaved for improvement of their services, although they have not officially adopted it. They are in the process of opening a woodland burial ground - for details see The Natural Death Centre's list of Woodland Burial Sites (D Pryor).

  • *** Cem: Kensal Green (All Souls) Cemetery, Harrow Road, London W10 4RA (tel 020 8969 0152). Plot (perpetuity) incl. digging and burial from £1,420. Maintenance if required from £44 p.a., VAT extra. They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins and body bags or shrouds. Length of funeral service: 'Up to an hour, or longer if no following service.' Chapel: 'Greek style (Doric) with a grandiose 'feel' and Victorian ambience.' Grounds: 'Much wildlife; Gothic, with a honeycomb of catacombs underground.' Memorials: 'Very few restrictions, except in two lawn grave areas where size and type of stone are regulated.' They have adopted the Charter for the Bereaved. 'Beautiful setting, historic architecture, polite and friendly staff. For families organising funerals without funeral directors, we provide as full co-operation and advice as possible. There is no extra charge for this' (David Burkett). (See also West London Crematorium.) Winner of the New Natural Death Handbook Award 2000 for the Best Cemetery in London.

  • Cem: Lavender Hill Cemetery, Cedar Road, Enfield, London EN2 OTH (tel 020 8363 0608); managed on behalf of the London Borough of Enfield. Plot (100 years) incl. digging and burial £701 (£1,333 extra for non-residents). Length of funeral service: 30 minutes (extra time may only be booked if the chapel is used, for an additional fee of £33). Chapel: 'Victorian, Gothic.' Grounds: 'Green belt.' Memorials: 'Lawn type, back to back or single rows; traditional head stones and kerbs on other older sections.' 'The cemetery is extremely well-kept and the staff have a caring attitude. We have a very low number of complaints.' A woodland burial area is planned - see The Natural Death Centre's list of Woodland Burial Sites for details (Mrs M Vetere).

  • Cem Lewishan: Hither Green Cemetery, Verdant Lane, London SE6 1TP (tel 020 8697 2555); also Grove Park Cemetery, Marvels Lane, London SE12; and Ladywell Cemetery, Ladywell Road, London SE13; and Brockley Cemetery, Brockley Road, London SE4; all run by the London Borough of Lewisham. Plot (50 years) incl. digging and burial £796 (quadruple for non-residents). They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins, or - at Grove Park only - shrouds, if transported in coffins. Length of funeral service: 60 to 90 minutes (extra time negotiable if commitments allow). Chapel: 'Victorian at Hither Green and Ladywell. Grove Park is from the 1930s; Ladywell and Brockley have no chapels available at present.' Grounds: 'All the cemeteries have an abundance of wildlife and a tranquil atmosphere.' Memorials: 'Restrictions on sizes for headstones and for full memorials.' There are plans for a woodland burial ground. 'We are actively working towards meeting the needs of the community' (Shirley Bishop).

  • Crem: Lewisham Crematorium, Verdant Lane, Catford, London SE6 1TP (tel 020 8698 4955). Price: £235. Time allotted: 30 minutes, extra time can be booked for £235. They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins. Chapel: 'Non-denominational.' Grounds: 'Landscaped Gardens of Remembrance, featuring central pond which attracts wide variety of wildlife.' 'We will always try to accommodate specific requests' (Shirley Bishop).

  • : Manor Park Crematorium, Manor Park Cemetery Company Ltd., Sebert Road, Forest Gate, London E7 0NP (tel 020 8534 1486). Run by the Manor Park Cemetery Company Ltd. Price: £240. Time allotted: 30 minutes (extra time can be booked). They will accept home-made or cardboard coffins. Chapels: 'Free church design.' Grounds: 'Wide drive-through cemetery. Large area for flowers. Florist on site. Night security patrol' (Norman Stephens).

  • Cem: Mill Hill Cemetery, Milespit Hill, Mill Hill, London NW7 2RR (tel 020 8567 0913; e-mail: hanwell@cemcrem.com); managed on behalf of the City of Westminster by Cemetery Management Ltd (based at Hanwell Cemetery, see above). Plot (75 years) incl. digging and burial £710 (£1,190 extra for non-residents). They will accept home-made and cardboard coffins. Length of funeral service: '30 minutes in chapel and then 30 minutes at graveside - extra time £52 per hour.' Chapel: 'Modern redbrick.' Grounds: 'Peaceful setting, includes the grave of Billy Fury.' Memorials: 'Up to 3' or 3' 6" in height. Portland stone is banned.' 'Comprehensive memorial survey undertaken in 1997/8' (James Evans).

  • : Mortlake Crematorium, Kew Meadow Path, Richmond, TW9 4EN (tel 020 876 8056). Price: £170. Time allotted: 30 minutes (extra time for £170). They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins. Chapels: 'Comfortable ambience, non-sombre atmosphere.' Grounds: 'Overlooks River Thames.' 'Approximately 2,500 cremations per year. The 145,000 cremations since the opening in 1939 include the funerals for Sir Michael Redgrave and Paul Eddington' (Bob Coates).

  • Crem: New Southgate Crematorium, Brunswick Park Road, London N11 1JJ (tel 020 8361 1713; e-mail: nsg@cemcrem.com); run by the New Southgate Cemetery and Crematorium Ltd, with all profits ploughed back into the site. Price: £240. Time allotted: 20 minutes (extra time can be booked for £75). They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins and body bags or shrouds. 'There is a new refrigerated coffin store and the new cremators can accommodate coffins up to 36" wide.' Chapels: 'Built 1858, with a high steeple and (screenable) ornate oak altar.' Grounds: 'One of best selections of conifer in London, together with native trees. Mature trees can be dedicated with natural rock memorials alongside, for £235.' 'Mourners are encouraged to donate flowers for our chapel walls so that other funerals can benefit. The crematory has been decorated in a style which offers warmth and comfort to the bereaved to allow those who wish to see the cremation process to attend in a fitting environment. There is a remembrance service in November and a Christmas carol service' (Richard Evans).

  • Cem: New Southgate Cemetery, Brunswick Park Road, London N11 1JJ (tel 020 8361 1713; e-mail: nsg@cemcrem.com); run by the New Southgate Cemetery and Crematorium Ltd, with all profits ploughed back into the site. Plot (50 years) incl. digging and burial £1,825. Maintenance: 'Range of services from £5 (plus cost of bouquet of flowers) to £145.' They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins and body bags or shrouds. Length of funeral service: 30 minutes (extra time £50). Chapel: 'The use of the chapel for burial services costs £70. It was built in 1858, with a high steeple and (screenable) ornate oak altar.' Grounds: 'One of best selections of conifer in London, together with native trees. Cemetery used by Jews (Reformed) and the Cypriot community. There are new Roman Catholic and Greek Orthodox sections. The shrine of Shogi Effendi in Bahai section has 100,000 visitors a year.' Memorials: 'All new memorials must be supplied by the cemetery for safety reasons. The cemetery will make contributions of up to £2,000 for memorial designs with particular artistic merit.' 'All graves have flower heads covering the bottom of the grave and flowers on the surface at the head and at the corners. Clean dry soil and flower petals provided for strewing. Special facilities provided as and when required, such as tables for traditional Cypriot food and wine' (Richard Evans).

  • Cem: Paddington Cemetery, Willesden Lane, London NW6; run by the London Borough of Brent, Brent Cemetery Service, Clifford Road, Alperton HA0 1AF (tel 020 8902 2385; fax 020 8795 0273; e-mail: langford@brent.gov.uk; web: www.mortbase.co.uk). Plot (50 years) incl. digging and burial £1,500 (£750 extra for non-residents). Maintenance: 'Nil. £82 if grave to be planted with flowering plants twice yearly.' They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins and shrouds. Length of funeral service: 'As much time as required.' Chapel: 'Gothic, 14th century style.' Grounds: 'Well laid out, wildlife area, children's play and quiet area, beehives. Dog walkers are permitted.' Memorials: 'No restrictions. A tree with memorial plaque can be planted and maintained for 15 years for £250.' They have adopted the Charter for the Bereaved. 'Fees are fair and in line with competing cemeteries. Very peaceful, with an abundance of wildlife. It is a green haven amidst the harsh urban environment' (Bob Langford).

  • Cem: Plumstead Cemetery, Cemetery Road, Wickham Lane, Abbeywood, London SE2 ONS; run by the London Borough of Greenwich, Greenwich Direct Services, Sun Yard, Archery Road, Eltham, London SE9 1HA (tel 020 8856 0100). Plot (50 years) incl. digging and burial £516 (£1,831 extra for non-residents). Maintenance £34-55 p.a., planting £69-10 p.a. Length of funeral service: 20 minutes (extra time £15 for 10 minutes). Chapel: 'Original Victorian chapel, well maintained, with polished wooden floors and stained glass.' Grounds: 'Well maintained. Sited on a hillside. From the arched gateway the main path ascends to the chapels. The ground around the chapels undulates and at one point is carved out of the hillside to create a cliff.' Memorials: '2' 6" wide by 4' high; kerbs 6' 6" by 2' 6".' There are plans for a woodland burial ground (Dawn Squires).

  • Crem: Putney Vale Crematorium, Stag Lane, Putney, London SW15 3DZ (tel 020 8788 2113 or 020 8789 8734; fax 020 8785 3448); run by the London Borough of Wandsworth. Price: £231 (non-residents £282). Time allotted: 20 minutes (extra time can be booked for £100). They will accept home-made or cardboard coffins, 'by prior arrangement'. Chapels: 'There are two traditional chapels converted in 1938, both seating 80 people.' Grounds: 'Formal garden, fountain, lily ponds, extending into a wooded glade' (Peter Tutt).

  • Crem: South London Crematorium, The Garden of Remembrance, Rowan Road, London SW16 5JG (tel 020 8679 4164); run by SCI (UK). Price: £281. Time allotted: 45 minutes (an extra 45 minutes can be booked for £100). They will accept cardboard or home-made coffins, and will consider wicker coffins. Chapels: 'Edwardian, churchlike, with seating for 60, and room for 100 standing.' Grounds: 'Formal gardens with mausoleums at the front of the building.' 'Services are available on both Saturdays and Sundays. There are very few restrictions and we will offer whatever the families want so long as it's legal' (Mr Nashfold). € Crem: South West Middlesex Crematorium, Hounslow Road, Hanworth, Feltham, Middlesex TW13 5JH (tel 020 8894 9001). Price: £155. Time allotted: 30 minutes (extra time can be booked for £85). They will accept home-made or cardboard coffins and body bags. Chapel: 'Three traditional chapels seating 25, 80 and 120 respectively.' Grounds: 'Both formal and informal.' They have adopted the Charter for the Bereaved. 'Very striking architecture and the grounds give a feel of tranquillity and peace' (Peter Alan Cronshaw

  • Crem: West London Crematorium, Kensal Green Cemetery, Harrow Road, London W10 4RA (tel 020 8969 0152). Price: £215. Time allotted: 20 minutes within a 30 minute period (extra time can be booked for £110). They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins (home-made coffins must comply with FBCA standards); they would need to see shrouds or body bags first. Chapels: 'A beautiful classical building. The East Chapel is in art deco style with oak pews and solid marble catafalque; the West is modern and light with light oak fixtures and catafalque.' Grounds: 'Surrounded by beautiful Gardens of Remembrance, with over 4,000 dedicated roses, and columbaria in the colonnades at the rear of the building.' They have adopted the Charter for the Bereaved. 'The superintendent is a qualified funeral director who will assist people to arrange funerals without recourse to a funeral director. There are no extra costs for this' (David Burkett).

  • Cem Whitton: Borough Cemetery, Powdermill Lane, Whitton, Middlesex; run by the London Borough of Hounslow. Details as for Bedfont Cemetery above.

  • Cem: Willesden New Cemetery, Franklyn Road, London NW10; run by the London Borough of Brent, Brent Cemetery Service, Clifford Road, Alperton HA0 1AF (tel 020 8902 2385; fax 020 8795 0273; e-mail: langford@brent.gov.uk; web: www.mortbase.co.uk). Plot (50 years) incl. digging and burial £1,500 (£750 extra for non-residents). Maintenance: 'Nil. £82 if grave to be planted with flowering plants twice yearly.' They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins and shrouds. Length of funeral service: 'As much time as required.' No chapel. Grounds: 'Old established cemetery.' Memorials: 'No restrictions. A tree with memorial plaque can be planted and maintained for 15 years for £250.' They have adopted the Charter for the Bereaved. 'Fees are fair and in line with competing cemeteries. Very peaceful, with an abundance of wildlife.' (Bob Langford

  • Cem: Woolwich Cemetery, Kings Highway, Plumstead, London SE18 2DS; run by the London Borough of Greenwich, Greenwich Direct Services, Sun Yard, Archery Road, Eltham, London SE9 1HA (tel 020 8856 0100). Plot (50 years) incl. digging and burial £516 (£1,831 extra for non-residents). Maintenance £34-55 p.a., planting £69-10 p.a. Length of funeral service: 20 minutes (extra time £15 for 10 minutes). Chapel: 'Brick Early English style chapel sits on the brow of the hill.' Grounds: 'The cemetery is divided into two sections. The old cemetery is an excellent example of how a Victorian cemetery can be adapted successfully into something like a country park whilst preserving its main features. The newer cemetery is on flat ground with very little landscaping but does have a Muslim section.' Memorials: '2' 6" wide by 4' high; kerbs 6' 6" by 2' 6"' (Dawn Squires).

    Scotland

  • Crem Edinburgh: Mortonhall Crematorium, 30, Howdenhall Road, Edinburgh EH16 6TX (tel 0131 664 4314). Price: £280. Time allotted: 30 minutes (extra 30 minutes can be booked for £55). They will accept cardboard coffins. Chapels: 'The two chapels were both designed by Sir Basil Spence. The main one seats 300 and has high ceilings and a piped organ; the small chapel seats 60.' Grounds: 'Mature woodland, lawns and mounds.' 'Memorial woodland plaques available from £400' (George Bell).

  • Crem Masonhill: Masonhill Crematorium, Masonhill, By Ayr, South Ayrshire KA6 6EN (tel 01292 266051). Price: £242. Time allotted: 30 minutes (an extra slot will cost £242). They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins and shrouds. Chapel: '1960s non-denominational, seating 154.' Grounds: 'In open country with established trees.' 'The service will adapt to meet the needs of the bereaved' (Martin Cole)

  • Crem Perth: Perth Crematorium, Crieff Road, Perth PH1 2PE (tel 01738 625068). Price: £289. Time allotted: 45 minutes between each service (extra time can be booked for £60). They will accept rigid containers as long as draped with a cloth. Chapel: 'The chapel, built in 1962, has wooden beams, wooden floors, and seats for 160.' Grounds: 'Formal and wooded.' 'This is the most unusual crematorium in Scotland. The gates in the chapel by the coffin close manually, so the family can ceremonially close the gates at the committal if they so wish' (Donald Martin).

    Eire and Northern Ireland

  • Crem Belfast: City of Belfast Crematorium, 129 Ballygowan Road, Crossnacreevy, Belfast, Northern Ireland BT5 7TZ (tel 028 9044 8342). Price: £95-40 (non-residents £190-60). Time allotted: 30 minutes (extra time can be booked without charge). They will accept home-made, cardboard or wicker coffins and body bags or shrouds. Chapel: 'Modern, church-like - but without religious symbolism.' Grounds: 'Beautiful lawns and memorial trees.' 'Nothing is too much trouble for our staff and every family regardless of their circumstances or background is treated with courtesy and respect. Families who wish to carry out their loved ones' funeral arrangements themselves are given help and encouragement by all the staff' (Mrs Sharon McCloy).

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