A crematorium is holding an open day as it offers a new ‘letters to heaven’ service to connect the bereaved with loved ones.
The Downs Crematorium, Brighton, opened on the site of Brighton and Preston cemetery in 1941.
The site is home to two chapels and a garden of remembrance and offers a “dedicated and caring” service for those organising a funeral.
The crematorium is offering a unique opportunity to allow people to explore the grounds and learn about its history.
The crematorium is situated in Brighton and Preston cemetery (Image: The Downs Crematorium)
On July 27, visitors will be given a ‘behind the scenes’ tour of the crematorium on its open day, including its historic burial chapel and cemetery.
Guests will also be able to view caskets and hearses and speak with local funeral directors, as well as learn about modern cremation technology.
The event will also be attended by other local funeral directors and the crematorium’s music and media supplier, Obitus.
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Christine said: “We welcome everyone and hope you will join us in celebrating our industry and exploring the diverse options available for your loved ones.”
The crematorium has also recently launched a new ‘letters to heaven service’ which offers the bereaved a chance to connect with those they have lost.
The site has installed a post box where people can post letters to late loved ones.
The letters will then be turned into compost combined with flowers from the ground, which will be used in the crematorium’s rose beds.
Christine Mahkonen, a memorial consultant at Downs Crematorium, said: “Here at The Downs Crematorium we are dedicated to providing a compassionate and respectful service to our families and are always looking for ways to support them.
“We are pleased to introduce our ‘Letters to Heaven’ post box which offers families a unique way to express their ongoing love and remembrance.
“The Letters to Heaven post box allows visitors to write cards and letters to their deceased loved ones, which will then be treated with the utmost respect and confidentiality.
“This environmentally friendly process not only honours the memories of loved ones, but also contributes to the upkeep of our beautiful memorial gardens.”
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