Hope for the bereaved

Bondholder Wathall's has thanked bereaved families for their understanding and cooperation during lockdown, pointing to a glimmer of hope on the horizon.

The head of Wathall’s, Helen Wathall MBE, the fifth generation of her family to run the company, has regularly updated ministers on the changing situation and posted information on the company website to advise families of changing circumstances during lockdown.

Recent updates have focused on the easing restrictions at local crematoria. At Markeaton Crematorium, maximum attendance for services is now ten in the Round Chapel and 30 in the Main Chapel if households can sit together or 20 if full social distancing is required.

Meanwhile maximum capacity has been increased to 24 mourners at Trent Valley Crematorium in Aston-on-Trent although mourner attendance continues to be limited to ten across all of Bondholder Derby City Council cemeteries.

Helen said: “The situation has constantly evolved since the lockdown was imposed and is still regularly changing so our aim has been to keep everyone informed and particularly to ease the burden of our local crematoria who are obviously stretched to capacity.

“Although this will, quite rightly, be a gradual process this latest news is a glimmer of hope that sensible easing of lockdown around funerals may now be on the horizon.”

Helen also appeared on the second edition of Marketing Derby's new Bondholder Live Lounge webinar series, which saw her interviewed by Claire Twells, Partner and Head of Debt Recovery at fellow Bondholder Smith Partnership. Guests were treated to a fascinating insight into the Wathall family history and what has driven Helen to become the success that she is today. If you missed the live event, please click watch it below.