Published Wednesday 22 April 2020 at 17:54
We promised to update our residents as soon as we could re-open our cemeteries in Blackburn with Darwen.
We’ve now received the new legislation needed from Government and I’m pleased to be able to tell you that all cemeteries will re-open from tomorrow (Thursday, April 23).
I would like to take this opportunity to thank our residents.
We know that this is an incredibly difficult time and it has been upsetting for those who have been unable to visit the graves of their loved ones – especially for those who have missed birthdays and anniversaries or tend to the graves regularly.
We appreciate your efforts in following the guidance – helping to keep us all safe as we face the worst public health crisis in our generation.
We also appreciate your patience while we sought clarity from Government on their announcement from the weekend – our priority, as always, is to protect our residents and staff during this unprecedented situation.
All cemeteries will be open from 8am each day throughout the summer months.
Can we please ask that our residents continue to adhere to the covid-19 guidelines in-place, including social distancing while visiting the cemeteries and regular hand washing.
Please remember, the Government advice is to stay home, protect the NHS, save lives.
It is also worth bearing in mind that funerals will still be taking place during working hours and so these points will be busier.
The Government has also shared updated guidance on who can attend funerals.
If you find yourself in that difficult situation, please speak to your funeral director or arranger who will be able to provide further help and support on this matter.
At Pleasington Crematorium, we have also invested in new technology to allow more residents to be able to pay their respects from home which I know has been a comfort to some.
Again, I’d like to thank our residents for their understanding and compassion shown at this time and for the efforts of our staff during these extremely difficult circumstances.
Denise Park – Chief Executive of Blackburn with Darwen Council.