Funerals
Funerals are a very important aspect of our Christian ministry at St Margaret's. Our faith in Jesus Christ, who himself rose from the dead, enables us to point those we care for to a God of hope and love. If you have been recently bereaved, you can
contact us to speak to one of the team or read on for further details.
Can anyone have a funeral conducted by a minister from St Margaret's?
We are pleased to conduct funerals at the church or a crematorium for any resident of the parish, regular worshippers and those registered on our electoral roll. Occasionally, we minister at funerals for those who live beyond the parish boundaries if the deceased or their family has a strong connection with the church, for example, a long-standing parishioner who has moved away but whose family still worship at the church.
We would also conduct a funeral for someone from outside the parish whose body will be interred in an existing grave or ashes plot which was originally prepared for two.
Can I be buried at St Margaret's?
We are very fortunate to have an open churchyard. If you are a resident of the parish or are a member of this congregation and on the electoral roll, you will be eligible for burial here. Because space is limited we can no longer do burials in the church grounds for those living outside the parish boundaries unless a space has been reserved in the existing grave of a loved one, normally a spouse.
Can I reserve a burial space at St Margaret's?
This is no longer possible. The obvious exception is where there is an existing grave and it has been planned that you are laid to rest with a loved one.
Is it possible for cremated remains to be scattered in the churchyard?
It is no longer possible to do this for reasons of health and safety. However, we do have a Garden of Remembrance where a turf may be lifted and ashes strewn underneath. The formal burial of ashes with a stone follows the guidance above for burials.
What is the Book of Remembrance?
Our Book of Remembrance is kept on display within the church. Entries can be made in memory of any loved one, even if there are no connection with the parish, an entry can be made to the book (there is an additional charge for this). Please contact our
Parish Administrator on 01737 552160 for more information.
How do I arrange a funeral at St Margaret's?
If you have just recently been bereaved, please accept our condolences. Firstly be in touch with your local funeral director and they will give you all the guidance you need on the practicalities of arranging a funeral. You can
contact us directly or through your funeral director. A visit can then be arranged at a mutually appropriate time.
The loss of a loved one raises big questions about life, loss and the future. If you have questions that we might be able to help with, please do
get in touch.
For more information, please visit the
Church of England website