Revamped Rotherham Crematorium to host inaugural Christmas service

Anyone is welcome to attend — and bereaved families who used the temporary marquee during the £380,000 building works have been invited.

It will feature a selection of favourite carols and a moment of reflection to remember those who have passed away this year.

Religious leaders have been invited to participate in the service, which will be led by crematorium manager Samantha Fletcher.

She said: “We know how difficult this time of year can be for those who have lost someone special.

“People that have attended similar events at other crematoria operated by Dignity have told us they find great comfort from the service. 

“This will also give families the opportunity to see for themselves the refurbished chapel, waiting room and other new facilities at the crematorium.”

The service takes place at 3.30pm and mince pies and refreshments will be provided afterwards.

From Saturday, there will also be memorial Christmas trees located in the cemetery, chapel waiting room and crematorium office.

Tags are available from the office so families can write a personal message of remembrance to their loved one and hang it on the tree of their choice.

Over the past year Dignity, which operates the crematorium for Rotherham Borough Council, has completed an extensive refurbishment, which included installing a new balcony to increase seating capacity, providing new audio and video capabilities for tributes and the facility to stream funerals via the internet to family across the world.