WARRINGTON Borough Council’s crematorium and cemeteries have retained their gold standard for the services they provide.

Walton Lea Crematorium, Fox Covert Cemetery, Warrington Cemetery, Burtonwood Cemetery and Hollinfare Cemetery have achieved gold status from the Institute of Cemetery and Crematorium Management (ICCM) once again.

It comes after the council’s five sites were awarded the Green Flag Award earlier this year – a repeat of 2016.

A number of improvements have been introduced at the crematorium, on Chester Road, including a private consultation room, funeral directors’ room and larger reception.

The main car park has also been extended to accommodate more than 30 extra cars.

The ICCM is a national body which recognises good practice in the running of crematoriums and cemeteries, with judging based on various aspects of the work of the bereavement service.

Councillor Judith Guthrie, executive board member for environment, said: “People who have lost loved ones are the most important consideration as far as our bereavement facilities are concerned and I am proud that the ICCM has recognised this once again by awarding us gold status.

“The award gives due recognition of all the hard work and dedication that goes into running bereavement services and encouragement to strive for even higher standards ensuring a quality of service that residents, and those outside the borough, have come to expect.”