Sunderland funeral director plans to hold services in people's gardens to support grieving families during coronavirus pandemic

Gavin Reynolds, who runs Gavin J. Reynolds & Son Family Funeral Directors on Sea Road, Fulwell, hopes to carry out trial runs of the innovative services next week, with a view to launching them as soon as possible.

The idea came from a fellow funeral director in the Midlands, who decided to carry out a service in the deceased’s own front garden so his loved ones could attend and take part from the safety of their own home.

And Gavin, who launched his parlour three years ago, said families’ funeral needs are changing rapidly – and it is his job to deliver whatever he can to make the tragic time that little bit easier.

He said: “It could just make life so much easier all around for everyone concerned.

“Neighbours can actively be at the funeral if it’s held at home – it really ticks all the boxes. As long as it brings comfort.”

The number of people who can currently attend funeral services in the city is limited in line with the Government’s guidance on social distancing and the current coronavirus lockdown measures.

But holding them in the garden of a home would allow family members who are self-isolating to safely pay their respects in person, while others in the local area could attend from a distance.

Gavin, who has worked in the business for around 10 years, asked followers on his Facebook page for their opinion on the new services – and was “over the moon” with the response.

Following the service, which could also include a family’s choice of music from a new sound system, the burial or cremation would then happen afterwards in line with current regulations.

Gavin added: “You get one chance to give someone a propert send-off; you don’t get a second chance so it’s got to be perfect.”

You can visit the company’s website here for more information.

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