Distington Hall Crematorium refurbs its chapel of remembrance

Significant investment at Copeland Council’s Distington Crematorium has seen a more tranquil space for remembrance, plus an increased commitment to the environment.

The complex’s separate Chapel of Remembrance was extensively refurbished during Covid restrictions. As well as being a more modern, light and calm place for mourners, it now also houses a unique memorial tree sculpture.

Families can purchase a personalised, inscribed metal leaf to be hung on the custom-made wrought iron sculpture. They can also buy a weather-proof replica leaf to keep and display at home.

Sue Pringle, Copeland’s Bereavement Services Manager, said: “We wanted something a bit different, that would be meaningful for families, and last longer than flowers.

“The piece is unique and was created by a local artist. We think it fits nicely with the calm décor and quiet atmosphere of the chapel.”

Copeland’s Elected Mayor, Mike Starkie, said: "As well as a wonderful interior refurbishment, the chapel also has an important new addition - a baby memorial book. This book is on a lectern in the chapel and it is there for anyone who has been touched by the loss of a baby to write their tributes in.

"We have been delighted with the improvements that have been made over lockdown. They will make a big difference to families. The Chapel of Remembrance is a calm, reflective environment for people to be with their thoughts, and there are some lovely new ways for them to commemorate their loved ones."

Another addition during lockdown was a new recycling and preparation area outside the Chapel of Remembrance. The wooden structure, simply built from reclaimed timbers, provides a place where the plastic and other wrappings from flowers can be removed and recycled.

Mrs Pringle said: “We found people often didn't know what to do with the plastic wrapping from their flowers, and sometimes it could end up as litter in the grounds, still there when the flowers inside had faded.”

There are recycling containers for plastic, card, flowers, glass, metal and for general waste. There is also a shelf where people can unwrap their flowers.

The unwrapped flowers can then be placed into the chapel's new vases, which themselves are made from recycled plastic.

Mr Starkie said: “We are increasingly aware of our footprint in terms of the environment and, alongside bigger sustainability projects, small changes at our own facilities can make a difference.”

Chapel of Remembrance interior

Bereavement Services Manager Sue Pringle & Mayor Mike Starkie