Residents have the chance to go behind the scenes at the crematorium in Stafford this weekend.

The Stafford Crematorium and Cemetery on the town’s Tixall Road is throwing open its doors with residents and visitors invited to find out more about what goes on at the borough council run service.

The open day is taking place between 10am and 2pm on Saturday 27 June.

A guided tour will include the chance to get up close to the cremators with a demonstration of how the process works. A golf buggy and mini cooper hearses will be on site, as well as a more traditional types of hearse too.

Expert staff will be available to talk about grave-digging, memorial safety, and eco-friendly funerals.

The Tixall Road site was awarded ‘Gold’ status by the Institute of Cemetery and Crematorium Management and has held a ‘Green Flag’ as one of the best open spaces in the country for more than a dozen years.

Joss Presland, Head of Operations at the council, said: “This might sound strange, but our open days at the crematorium have proved to be popular with our residents and visitors with many hundreds attending previous events.

“Many find it reassuring to discover more about what goes on, and ask questions about the many services we provide, at a time when they are not facing the emotional grief associated with losing a loved one.”

For details about the bereavement service go to www.staffordbc.gov.uk/bereavement

Press Release No 6305