FUNERAL services continue to be held at Poole Crematorium chapel amid the coronavirus pandemic.

Although the cremators are not running during these unprecedented times, the chapel and memorial grounds remain open for bereaved families who wish to choose Poole Crematorium as the venue for the funeral of a loved one.

Instead, cremations are now taking place in Bournemouth.

Following services each day, the coffins are being respectfully conveyed to the Bournemouth facility.

Cremated remains will be returned to Poole for the funeral director to collect on behalf of the bereaved families which will then be scattered or interred within the memorial grounds at Poole Crematorium.

Leader of BCP Council, Cllr Vikki Slade said: "We would like to reassure the bereaved that funeral services continue at Poole Crematorium to the highest standards and with minimal disturbance and it is likely most mourners will notice very little change to the way services are conducted at this time."

Owner of local funeral service Chester Pearce, Stephen Nimmo added: "Although cremations can no longer be carried out at Poole, it should not be forgotten that we still have a beautiful, and essential resource in the crematorium chapel itself. The staff at Poole have always offered such a warm welcome to bereaved families, and they continue to do so, giving the opportunity to say goodbye to a loved one in exactly the same way as always."

All services at Poole Crematorium are being conducted in accordance with the latest Government guidance.

10 people can attend, plus a minister or celebrant, along with your funeral director who can provide guidance on the latest measures and how this may affect your service.