Hartlepool and East Durham funeral directors on everything you need to know about organising services during virus outbreak

Mason’s Funeral Directors in Hartlepool and Speckmans, in Wingate, are reminding families they can still organise the funeral they want however they need to be aware of a number of changes due to the virus pandemic.

The vast majority of funerals are now being arranged by telephone or email at Mason’s and other funeral directors in the area to protect staff and clients.

Restrictions are also in place at the Chapel of Rest.

Hartlepool funeral director Tracey Rimmer, of Dignity Funerals, said: “While you may not be able to have everybody you want there at the moment, you can still organise the funeral you want for your loved one.

“Your loved one can be buried or cremated. We are able to arrange flowers, although some florists have limited ranges at the moment.

“You can have readings, music and a hearse.

“Hartlepool Crematorium is still holding funeral services. Although many churches and other religious venues are closed, religious leaders continue to conduct funerals.

“Most importantly, you will have the time you need to pay your respects. And, when restrictions have lifted, you may choose to have a further memorial service to remember your loved one at which everyone who wants to attend will be able to.”

A maximum of eight people are allowed to attend services, but at Hartlepool Crematorium two groups of eight mourners can be present as it has two chapels with one group watching the service on screen.

Masons and Speckmans are currently not offering a limousine service in line with Government social distancing guidelines and to protect employees and clients, meaning families must arrange their own travel arrangements.

“We are well aware of how important this can be to people and we did not take the decision lightly,” said Tracey.

“Despite some things changing during the coronavirus outbreak to help protect people, our professional teams at Mason’s and Speckmans Funeral Directors, are here to help customers and provide them with a high quality service that ensures they can arrange the funeral they want for their loved ones.”

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