Celebrations at the double for funeral directors

A funeral directors with branches across Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire is preparing to celebrate its 150th anniversary in 2025.

Neville Funerals, part of the Neville Trust Group of Companies, will mark this momentous occasion with a series of activities planned to commemorate its long-standing legacy.

This milestone follows another significant celebration for the company. Last year, Neville Funerals marked 10 years of serving the community of Woburn Sands, a location with its own rich history.

Originally opened as the Maypole Beerhouse in 1867, the company’s premises later housed various businesses, including fabric and furniture shops and a drum and percussion specialist, before being acquired by Neville Funerals in 2014. Following extensive renovations by the company’s construction and joinery teams, the Woburn Sands branch officially opened as Neville Funerals’ seventh funeral home in the region.

Over the past decade, Neville Funerals has become an integral part of the Woburn Sands community, supporting local events such as Christmas fairs and tree festivals. The branch has also provided sponsorship and raffle prizes to help these initiatives thrive.

Among its proudest contributions is its partnership with Helping Hands Woburn Sands, a service that assists adults needing support to live independently.

Neville Funerals has played an active role in promoting this vital service, acting as a post office and managing the service’s cash and records.

In 2021, the Woburn Sands branch introduced the Talking Elephants bereavement support service, offering a safe space for those coping with loss. This initiative reflects Neville Funerals’ commitment to providing compassionate, community-focused services.

To celebrate its 10th anniversary, the branch hosted a Macmillan coffee morning, returning to its roots with an event that brought the community together. Visitors enjoyed a vibrant atmosphere complete with balloons, banners, face painting and colouring activities. The event raised nearly £300 for the Macmillan charity.