Funerals at Wakefield and Pontefract crematoria to be limited to 20 minutes

Wakefield Council, which runs both venues, says its made the move as a further precaution during the coronavirus pandemic.

Mourners attending services at local crematoria are already restricted to 10 in number because of COVID-19, with 20 allowed at other graveside ceremonies organised by the council.

Families of those who’ve died naturally have the option of a 20 or 40 minute service at the crematoria.

But the lengthier option will now be removed, though relatives who have already made a 40 minute booking before April 27 will be unaffected by the change.

The council’s acting chief executive, Andrew Balchin, said: “This has been a very difficult decision to make in very challenging circumstances.

“We understand that these changes will be difficult for families grieving the loss of a loved-one.

“These changes have been temporarily introduced to help keep everyone who is involved, both families and staff, as safe as possible during these unprecedented times.

“It will also enable more services to take place.”