What's new

The construction of Mendip Crematorium has now been completed.

A new crematorium for Somerset

The construction of Mendip Crematorium has now been completed and is now available to serve families in Shepton Mallet, Wells, Glastonbury and the surrounding districts. This new facility will offer much reduced journey times for local bereaved families as until now the nearest crematorium is in Bath, 15 miles away.

The Chapel at Mendip Crematorium can seat 94 visitors with additional standing space for larger services. It has been constructed using only materials that compliment the surrounding countryside and the interior is furnished to a high standard with ease of access for the disabled and infirm. The Chapel also has an organ in addition to other musical options and a loop facility to help those that have difficulty with hearing.

"We will be offering service times of up to 45 minutes duration whereas most local authority managed crematoria usually provide services of 30 minutes," said crematorium manager, John Callaghan. "This extended service is part of our commitment to the highest standards of client service and ensures that families don't feel that they are rushed out of the Chapel on the day of the service."

Local funeral directors will also have access to the crematorium's 24-hour booking system that will allow them to provide an improved service to local families.

The crematorium has been designed to be kind to the environment and will feature a fully abated cremator to meet the latest environmental standards. The site will also feature a rain harvesting system that collects rain when the water table is high and stores it for use in the summer. This not only helps to save water but also maintains the Gardens of Remembrance to a high standard all year round. A great deal of effort has been made by Dignity to ensure the grounds, which include a water feature enhanced by local stone, blend naturally into the Mendip landscape. The grounds will be open every day throughout the year.

"The grounds of the crematorium will continue to be developed so that the visitors have a place of beauty and tranquillity in which to pay their last respects," continued John. "We also offer a wide range of memorials in different materials, colours, shapes and sizes that can help families by having a focal point for their grief."

John will be supported by administrator and memorial consultant, Bethany Welch and cremator technician and verger, Matthew Lord, both of whom live locally.

An Official Opening Ceremony and an Open Day for members of the public who may have any questions about the crematorium or its facilities is being planned for later this spring.