Half-price funerals at new Attwood Funerals Kidderminster chapel

Attwood Funerals has renovated its old chapel of rest and waking area in Marlpool Lane into a small chapel for private family funerals.

The independent funeral directors spent nearly £2,000 on the development in response to concerns raised by some families about the high cost of crematorium services, which can exceed £3,000.

Company owner Mike Spöhrer said: "We've had a couple of situations where families have just wanted a very small gathering and have not wanted a full service at a crematorium as that can be quite expensive.

"It's difficult to be able to provide that type of service at a venue anywhere so we tried our best to create a space for that."

Mike says the new chapel can cut the cost of funerals in half, while also providing an intimate service "away from the stress and restrictions" of a crematorium.

Services at Attwood's chapel have no time limits, with services available at any time of day, and can accommodate around 15 people.

The chapel can be decorated to families' tastes and there is no need to pay for a hearse as the services takes place on site.

Tea, coffee and cake are also included in the price.

Mike said: "Doing things this way can provide a dignified, unique and healing experience. For example, a service following or preceding a low-cost direct cremation, or before heading to a cemetery.

"The chapel is intended for use by people who would like a small gathering or wish to have a direct cremation but would like some form of funeral service as well."

The chapel is now open for bookings.