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A Guiding Light<br />
Telephone: 01895 556560
Virtual T<strong>our</strong>s now available<br />
see page 27<br />
About <strong>Breakspear</strong><br />
Contact information & Opening H<strong>our</strong>s ............................ 4<br />
Directions by Car, Bus, Tube & Taxi ............................. 5-6<br />
<strong>Breakspear</strong> His<strong>to</strong>ry & The Chapels ...................................7<br />
Facilities for Disabled Persons & Memorials ................... 8<br />
Local Area & Crema<strong>to</strong>rium Map ...................................... 9<br />
Memorial Facilities<br />
The Book of Remembrance .............................................10<br />
The Book of Remembrance Example .............................. 11<br />
Remembrance Cards & Miniature Books........................12<br />
Memorial Roses ...............................................................13<br />
Ornamental Trees & Shrubs ............................................14<br />
Cloister Wall Plates..........................................................15<br />
Garden Niche ...................................................................16<br />
Memorial Vase ................................................................. 17<br />
Garden Memorial Scheme & Additional Memorials ......18<br />
Memorial Window & Hall of Memory Window ..............19<br />
Frequently Asked Questions<br />
27 common questions answered ...............................20-26<br />
New Technology<br />
Website, Virtual T<strong>our</strong>s & Services Online .......................27<br />
3
4<br />
Contact Information<br />
All enquiries and comments should be addressed <strong>to</strong>:<br />
The Manager and Registrar<br />
<strong>Breakspear</strong> Crema<strong>to</strong>rium<br />
<strong>Breakspear</strong> Road, Ruislip, Middlesex, HA4 7SJ<br />
Telephone: 01895 556560<br />
Email: bcrema<strong>to</strong>rium@hillingdon.gov.uk<br />
Website: www.breakspearcrema<strong>to</strong>rium.org<br />
Opening H<strong>our</strong>s<br />
The grounds are open <strong>to</strong> the public as follows:-<br />
Summer Months (April - Sept)<br />
Monday - Saturday 9:00am - 6:30pm<br />
Sundays 10:00am - 6:30pm<br />
Winter Months (Oct - Mar)<br />
Monday - Saturday 9:00am - 5:00pm<br />
Sundays 10:00am - 5:00pm<br />
Christmas Day 10:00am - 2:00pm<br />
Bank Holiday 10:00am - 4:00pm<br />
* Please note main entrance gates are closed 15 minutes<br />
before closing times and also the Chapel and Hall of<br />
Memory <strong>to</strong> enable visi<strong>to</strong>rs <strong>to</strong> leave the Crema<strong>to</strong>rium<br />
grounds at the appointed closing times.<br />
Offi ce H<strong>our</strong>s<br />
Monday - Friday 9:00am - 4:30pm<br />
Closed Saturday, Sunday and Bank Holidays<br />
Directions<br />
By Road (M25)<br />
Leave the M25 at junction 16 (M40) <strong>to</strong>wards Uxbridge and London<br />
(W). The M40 will change at Junction 1 <strong>to</strong> the A40.<br />
At Swakeleys Junction turn left, sign-posted Harefi eld and<br />
Ickenham, in<strong>to</strong> Swakeleys Road. At the fi rst mini roundabout take<br />
the second exit, then at the next mini roundabout take the fi rst exit<br />
in<strong>to</strong> <strong>Breakspear</strong> Road South. Proceed straight on until reaching the<br />
<strong>Breakspear</strong> Arms public house which is on y<strong>our</strong> right. Turn right, in<br />
front of the <strong>Breakspear</strong> Arms, in<strong>to</strong> <strong>Breakspear</strong> Road, and proceed<br />
straight on until reaching <strong>Breakspear</strong> Crema<strong>to</strong>rium which is on the<br />
left hand side.<br />
Parking is inside the crema<strong>to</strong>rium grounds where there are three<br />
car parks.<br />
Local Area<br />
At the north end of Ruislip High Street, by the Parish Church, take<br />
the fi rst exit from the mini roundabout in<strong>to</strong> Bury Street. Continue<br />
for about one mile <strong>to</strong> the next mini roundabout , BP petrol station<br />
on the left hand side. Turn left in<strong>to</strong> <strong>Breakspear</strong> Road and the<br />
crema<strong>to</strong>rium is fi fty yards on the right.<br />
Those travelling from the south and east can reach Bury Street by<br />
leaving the A40 Western Avenue at the signpost for Ruislip. On the<br />
roundabout take the third exit in<strong>to</strong> West End Road which runs in<strong>to</strong><br />
Ruislip High Street. From Harrow <strong>to</strong> Pinner via the Uxbridge Road<br />
join the Eastcote Road which runs in<strong>to</strong> the mini- roundabout by<br />
Ruislip Parish Church. Take the second exit in<strong>to</strong> Bury Street.<br />
From the north approach from Rickmansworth via the A404,<br />
passing Mount Vernon Hospital on the right. At the traffi c lights<br />
turn right in<strong>to</strong> Ducks Hill Road and continue <strong>to</strong> the bot<strong>to</strong>m of the<br />
hill. At the petrol station, mini roundabout, turn right in<strong>to</strong><br />
<strong>Breakspear</strong> Road and the crema<strong>to</strong>rium is fi fty yards on the right.<br />
5
6<br />
By Bus<br />
The number; H13 bus s<strong>to</strong>ps on Bury Street within fi fty yards of the<br />
crema<strong>to</strong>rium (except Sundays). Descend from the bus and turn left<br />
in<strong>to</strong> <strong>Breakspear</strong> Road; the crema<strong>to</strong>rium is on the right.<br />
The number; 331 bus s<strong>to</strong>ps near the crema<strong>to</strong>rium entrance on<br />
<strong>Breakspear</strong> Road.<br />
Both these buses are available at the bus station located outside the<br />
entrance <strong>to</strong> Ruislip Underground Station.<br />
By Tube<br />
The nearest underground station is Ruislip, which is served by both<br />
the Metropolitan and Piccadilly Lines. In inner London the<br />
Metropolitan line can be caught at Baker Street and the Piccadilly<br />
line from either Leicester Square or Piccadilly Circus.<br />
By Taxi<br />
The nearest London Underground station served by Licensed Taxis<br />
(capable of transporting persons in wheelchairs) is Uxbridge.<br />
There is also a Licensed Taxi rank at Harrow-on--the-Hill<br />
Station. Alternative minicabs may be ordered by telephone from<br />
other underground stations in the area, including Ruislip which<br />
is the nearest.<br />
<strong>Breakspear</strong> His<strong>to</strong>ry<br />
<strong>Breakspear</strong> Crema<strong>to</strong>rium was opened on the 14th December 1957<br />
and subsequently extended in 1972 when a second chapel was built.<br />
The crema<strong>to</strong>rium is administered by the London Borough of Hillingdon<br />
on behalf of the London Borough’s of Hillingdon and Harrow.<br />
Beautifully situated in the Green Belt zone between Ruislip and<br />
Northwood, <strong>Breakspear</strong> Crema<strong>to</strong>rium lies in undulating country,<br />
bounded by fi elds and woodlands sweeping away <strong>to</strong> the north. It<br />
is a pleasant and peaceful location and those who have planned its<br />
growth have made the most of its natural advantages. The grounds<br />
of <strong>Breakspear</strong> Crema<strong>to</strong>rium, comprising of over 26 acres, are a<br />
combination of natural beauty and formal gardens, and provide<br />
a peaceful resting place for cremated remains and for the many<br />
memorial features available.<br />
The Gardens of Remembrance, contain two areas that have been set<br />
aside for the strewing of cremated remains, are situated <strong>to</strong> the left<br />
of the main entrance drive and at the side of the Solitude Garden, <strong>to</strong><br />
the north-west of the crema<strong>to</strong>rium. In these areas cremated remains<br />
are strewn, the location being recorded, so other members of the<br />
same family may be strewn in the same area.<br />
The Chapels<br />
<strong>Breakspear</strong> Crema<strong>to</strong>rium has two chapels: the East Chapel, which<br />
is of the traditional style, and the West Chapel, which has a circular<br />
modern design. The chapels are interdenominational, catering<br />
for all religious needs, and religious symbols may be displayed or<br />
removed according <strong>to</strong> the persuasion of the bereaved. Both chapels<br />
can seat upwards of eighty persons with suffi cient space <strong>to</strong> allow<br />
standing room for a similar number in each chapel. Both chapels are<br />
carpeted throughout which, <strong>to</strong>gether with the oak seating and fl oral<br />
displays, combine <strong>to</strong> give a feeling of warmth and serenity.<br />
Each chapel is equipped with an electronic organ and an extensive<br />
range of music can be played at services, ranging from religious<br />
through classical <strong>to</strong> more popular pieces of light music. In addition<br />
a sound system and loudspeaker system is installed in each chapel<br />
so that CD’s and tape cassettes can be played.<br />
7
8<br />
Facilities for Disabled Persons<br />
Toilets for disabled persons are provided adjacent <strong>to</strong> the West<br />
Chapel cloisters and each chapel contains a loop system for the<br />
hard of hearing. Ramps have been provided on each side of the East<br />
Chapel <strong>to</strong> allow entry and exit for wheelchairs and also a ramp is<br />
located outside the Hall of Memory.<br />
In addition many kerbs have been dropped <strong>to</strong> allow wheelchair<br />
users <strong>to</strong> negotiate the paths around the crema<strong>to</strong>rium buildings.<br />
Parking spaces for disabled persons are available in each of the<br />
three car parks with one space located on the left of the East<br />
Chapel entrance.<br />
Memorials<br />
The whole of the grounds are a collective memorial and, whatever<br />
the season, are pleasing <strong>to</strong> visit where a few moments of thought in<br />
tranquil surroundings can bring comfort and peace.<br />
For those bereaved who do not feel the need for a personal<br />
memorial, yet have expressed a desire <strong>to</strong> make a small contribution<br />
<strong>to</strong>wards maintaining and enhancing the fl oral beauty of the gardens<br />
and woodlands, a Garden Memorial Scheme has been provided.<br />
This allows bereaved persons <strong>to</strong> make donations <strong>to</strong> a fund set up <strong>to</strong><br />
purchase bulbs and other plants for random planting throughout<br />
the grounds.<br />
Many persons however feel the need for a more tangible link with<br />
the bereaved, who have meant so much <strong>to</strong> them, by having an<br />
individual memorial <strong>to</strong> the memory of their loved one. To meet this<br />
need <strong>Breakspear</strong> Crema<strong>to</strong>rium has provided various memorials<br />
for dedication.<br />
LEA SIDE<br />
OAKVIEW<br />
ROSEWAYE<br />
MEADVIEW<br />
THE<br />
HAVEN<br />
FORMAL<br />
CAR PARK<br />
SOLITUDE<br />
GARDEN OF<br />
REMEMBRANCE<br />
FLORAL<br />
TERRACE<br />
SUMMER<br />
HOUSE<br />
KNOLL<br />
GARDEN<br />
PEACE<br />
GARDEN<br />
CAR<br />
PARK<br />
WEST<br />
CHAPEL<br />
FLORAL<br />
AREA<br />
EAST<br />
CHAPEL<br />
WATERSIDE<br />
GARDEN<br />
DELL<br />
GARDEN<br />
GARDEN OF<br />
REMEMBRANCE<br />
CAR<br />
PARK<br />
OFFICE<br />
BREAKSPEAR ROAD<br />
N<br />
THE<br />
GLADE
10<br />
The Book of Remembrance<br />
The Book of Remembrance is on display within the Hall of Memory,<br />
adjacent <strong>to</strong> the East Chapel, and is comprised of several volumes,<br />
one for each quarter of the year. The Book is on <strong>view</strong> throughout the<br />
year, displayed in a protective case, always open <strong>to</strong> the current date<br />
so inscriptions may be seen on each anniversary of the date of death<br />
or other specifi ed date.<br />
The Book’s are composed of leaves of the fi nniest hand-made<br />
paper with richly <strong>to</strong>oled binding and the memorial inscriptions are<br />
executed by hand, by professional scribes, which offers the same<br />
degree of permanence and artistic excellence as the best medieval<br />
manuscripts.<br />
The minimum entry is two lines consisting of the name of deceased<br />
on the <strong>to</strong>p line, with a personal inscription on the second. Entries<br />
of fi ve, eight or ten lines can include a fl oral emblem, animal, bird,<br />
badge, crest or shield, which may be of signifi cance <strong>to</strong> the family.<br />
To ensure memorial entries are inscribed for the fi rst<br />
anniversary or requested date, applicants are <strong>to</strong> be submitted by<br />
the following dates;<br />
January, February and March by the preceding September<br />
April, May and June by the preceding December<br />
July, August and September by the preceding March<br />
Oc<strong>to</strong>ber, November and December by the preceding June<br />
Also located within the Hall of Memory, is the visual display unit<br />
which allows any entry that has already been inscribed in one of<br />
the books, <strong>to</strong> be <strong>view</strong>ed on any day of the year. The computerised<br />
system is operated by <strong>to</strong>uching the screen and following the simple<br />
instructions. A “zoom” facility allows a particular entry <strong>to</strong> be<br />
selected from the full page and shown in close up.<br />
11
12<br />
Remembrance Cards & Miniature Books<br />
These are replica entries of the Book of Remembrance for families<br />
and friends <strong>to</strong> have as a keepsake.<br />
The cards and miniature books are in the same style as the Book of<br />
Remembrance and contain beneath the anniversary date a copy of<br />
the original inscription as it appears in the Book. The cards are for<br />
individual entries; miniature books can be inscribed with up <strong>to</strong><br />
ten entries.<br />
From placing y<strong>our</strong> order it can take approximately 3-4 months <strong>to</strong><br />
complete and will be posted directly <strong>to</strong> y<strong>our</strong> address.<br />
Both memorials are hand written and illustrated by the same<br />
Craftsmen who inscribe the Book.<br />
Examples are available for <strong>view</strong>ing at the Crema<strong>to</strong>rium Offi ce.<br />
Memorial Roses<br />
Standard rose trees and bushes are located within the gardens.<br />
They are available for dedication for an initial period of fi ve years,<br />
with the option <strong>to</strong> renew.<br />
The memorial plate can accommodate up <strong>to</strong> 125 characters of<br />
inscription and can include a motif. This is placed in-front of the<br />
rose during the lease period; each rose may have up <strong>to</strong> two plates.<br />
A large selection of roses in varying col<strong>our</strong>s are pre-planted within<br />
the grounds, therefore it may be possible <strong>to</strong> select a preferred col<strong>our</strong><br />
of rose or a particular garden from those available. We will try <strong>our</strong><br />
utmost <strong>to</strong> accommodate y<strong>our</strong> request.<br />
During the lease period, we accept full responsibility for the care<br />
and upkeep of the rose, including replacement should this be<br />
necessary. During the lease period the Authority accepts no<br />
responsibility for the upkeep of the plate.<br />
It takes approximately 6/8 weeks from placing the order <strong>to</strong> delivery.<br />
Upon completion a letter will be forwarded <strong>to</strong> the applicant advising<br />
them of the location.<br />
It must be unders<strong>to</strong>od, that unless a memorial is renewed at the end<br />
of the lease period, it will be removed from its location two months<br />
after the expiry date.<br />
13
14<br />
Ornamental Trees & Shrubs<br />
Where a more individual type of memorial is desired,<br />
Ornamental Trees and Shrubs will fulfi l such a need and provide<br />
a dignifi ed tribute.<br />
Ornamental Trees are dedicated for an initial period of ten years,<br />
the Shrubs for fi ve years. You have the option <strong>to</strong> renew for a<br />
further period.<br />
The memorial plate can accommodate up <strong>to</strong> 125 characters of<br />
inscription and can include a motif. This is placed in front of the<br />
Ornamental Tree or Shrub during the lease period, each tree or<br />
shrub may have up <strong>to</strong> f<strong>our</strong> plates.<br />
Unfortunately the Trees and Shrubs are in limited supply and<br />
it is advisable <strong>to</strong> check availability before deciding on this form<br />
of memorial.<br />
It will take approximately 6/8 weeks from placing the order<br />
<strong>to</strong> delivery.<br />
Upon completion a letter will be forwarded <strong>to</strong> the applicant advising<br />
them of the location. It must be unders<strong>to</strong>od, that unless a memorial<br />
is renewed at the end of the lease period, it will be removed from its<br />
location one month after the expiry date.<br />
Cloister Wall Plates<br />
The single and double metal wall plates are located on the East and<br />
West Chapel Cloisters; these are leased for an initial period of ten<br />
years, with an option <strong>to</strong> renew.<br />
The plates are manufactured from cast aluminium, the single plate<br />
measures 7” X 5” and can accommodate up <strong>to</strong> 150 characters<br />
including a motif. The double plate measures 11” X 7” and can<br />
accommodate up <strong>to</strong> 300 characters including a motif.<br />
During the lease period the Authority accepts no responsibility for<br />
the upkeep of the plate.<br />
Unfortunately, due <strong>to</strong> the availability of space, it will not be possible<br />
<strong>to</strong> personally select the fi xing location of the plate.<br />
It takes approximately 6/8 weeks from placing the order <strong>to</strong> delivery.<br />
Upon completion a letter will be forwarded <strong>to</strong> the applicant advising<br />
them of the location.<br />
It must be unders<strong>to</strong>od, that unless a memorial is renewed at the end<br />
of the lease period, it will be removed from its location one month<br />
after the expiry date.<br />
15
16<br />
Garden Niche<br />
The Niche is made of Grey Granite with a black fascia and has gold<br />
(gilded) lettering. They are situated in front of the covered walkway<br />
(East Chapel) facing the main lawn and can accommodate two sets<br />
of cremated remains.<br />
They are leased for an initial period of 10 years, with an option <strong>to</strong><br />
renew. Once we have received y<strong>our</strong> order a letter plan will be sent,<br />
this will enable you <strong>to</strong> see what the wording will look like and for<br />
any amendments <strong>to</strong> be made, prior <strong>to</strong> the plaque being inscribed.<br />
Additional items such as pho<strong>to</strong>plaque, gilded or hand painted motif<br />
can also be added.<br />
Memorial Vase<br />
The Memorial Vase is available in Blue Pearl or Dark Grey Granite<br />
and has gold (gilded) lettering. They are leased for an initial period<br />
of 5 years, with an option <strong>to</strong> renew.<br />
Once O we have h received i d y<strong>our</strong> order d a letter l plan l will ill be b<br />
sent, this<br />
will enable you <strong>to</strong> see what the wording will look like and for any<br />
amendments <strong>to</strong> be made, prior <strong>to</strong> the vase being inscribed.<br />
Additional items such as pho<strong>to</strong>plaque, gilded or hand painted motif<br />
can also be added.<br />
17
18<br />
Garden Memorial Scheme<br />
Many visi<strong>to</strong>rs <strong>to</strong> the Crema<strong>to</strong>rium have expressed a desire <strong>to</strong><br />
contribute <strong>to</strong>wards maintaining and enhancing the fl oral beauty of<br />
the gardens and woodlands.<br />
The Authority welcomes and appreciates this interest and has<br />
introduced a scheme whereby persons may make donations <strong>to</strong> a<br />
fund for the purchasing of fl owering bulbs and other plants.<br />
Since the gardens are designed as a whole in order <strong>to</strong> preserve their<br />
beauty it is not practicable <strong>to</strong> allow private planting of any kind.<br />
All ordering and planting will be carried out by the Crema<strong>to</strong>rium<br />
staff. It must also be unders<strong>to</strong>od that such planting cannot be in any<br />
special position and will not endow claim <strong>to</strong> any particular portion<br />
of the grounds.<br />
Planting will be carried out at random throughout the year and<br />
donations are welcome at any time.<br />
Additional Memorials<br />
We have two other memorials at <strong>Breakspear</strong> Crema<strong>to</strong>rium.<br />
Memorial Benches - subject <strong>to</strong> availability.<br />
Columbarium (Indoor Niche).<br />
If you require further information regarding these memorials,<br />
please contact the Crema<strong>to</strong>rium offi ce.<br />
Full payment must accompany any application. Please make y<strong>our</strong><br />
remittance payable <strong>to</strong> London Borough of Hillingdon. We are able<br />
<strong>to</strong> accept most credit & debit cards.<br />
The Authority reserves the right <strong>to</strong> alter any application that is<br />
deemed unsuitable and <strong>to</strong> change the design of any memorial<br />
without giving prior notice.<br />
Memorial Window<br />
Located on the exit of the West Chapel adjacent <strong>to</strong> the pond.<br />
The panel is made of clear glass with approximately 60 letters of<br />
black inscription fi tted in-between plain col<strong>our</strong>ed panels <strong>to</strong> give the<br />
effects of a stained glass window.<br />
They are leased for an initial period of ten years, with the option <strong>to</strong><br />
renew. It takes approximately 8/12 weeks from placing the order <strong>to</strong><br />
delivery. Upon completion a letter will be forwarded <strong>to</strong> the applicant<br />
advising them of the location.<br />
It must be unders<strong>to</strong>od, that unless a memorial is renewed at the end<br />
of the lease period, it will be removed from its location one month<br />
after the expiry date.<br />
Hall of Memory Window<br />
Located in the Hall of Memory, this allows approximately 60 letters<br />
of inscription <strong>to</strong>gether with a motif.<br />
The window is a transfer between two panes of glass and comes in<br />
frosted col<strong>our</strong>s.<br />
Leased for an initial period of ten years, with the option <strong>to</strong> renew.<br />
It takes approximately 8/12 weeks from placing the order <strong>to</strong><br />
delivery. Upon completion a letter will be forwarded <strong>to</strong> the applicant<br />
advising them of location. It must be unders<strong>to</strong>od, that unless a<br />
memorial is renewed at the end of the lease period. It will be<br />
removed from its location one month after the expiry date.<br />
19
20<br />
Frequently Asked Questions<br />
How many of the deaths which occur in Great Britain each<br />
year result in cremation?<br />
Cremation has become the preferred method of disposal in Great<br />
Britain. Approximately 72% of all recorded deaths are now<br />
followed by cremation.<br />
Are there any religious groups which forbid cremation <strong>to</strong><br />
their members?<br />
All Christian denominations, including the Roman Catholic<br />
Church, allow cremation. Cremation is also acceptable <strong>to</strong> Sikhs,<br />
Hindus, Parsees and Buddhists but is forbidden <strong>to</strong> Orthodox Jews<br />
and Muslims.<br />
Is cremation more expensive than burial?<br />
Generally the cost of burial is much higher than the fee charged<br />
for cremation. Cremation usually necessitates the production of<br />
medical certifi cates for which fees are payable <strong>to</strong> the doc<strong>to</strong>rs<br />
concerned. These certifi cates are not required when the death has<br />
been referred <strong>to</strong> and investigated by the Coroner (Procura<strong>to</strong>r<br />
Fiscal in Scotland) or where burial is required. Where burial is<br />
<strong>to</strong> take place fees for grave purchase, excavation, memorials and<br />
grave maintenance may be incurred.<br />
What service arrangements are available at<br />
the crema<strong>to</strong>rium?<br />
A full religious service may be conducted at the crema<strong>to</strong>rium<br />
within the time allowed for each funeral. If it is thought that the<br />
service will take longer than the half h<strong>our</strong> allocation, an extra<br />
half h<strong>our</strong> period may be booked for which a fee would be charged.<br />
Alternatively a service may take place in any separate place of<br />
worship followed by a brief committal ceremony at the<br />
crema<strong>to</strong>rium. Families may arrange for their particular Minister<br />
<strong>to</strong> conduct the service or when required their Funeral Direc<strong>to</strong>r may<br />
secure the services of a suitable Minister on behalf of the family.<br />
Is it necessary for the cremation <strong>to</strong> be associated with a<br />
religious ceremony?<br />
The deceased’s family can make any service arrangements which<br />
they consider <strong>to</strong> be appropriate. Secular services can be conducted<br />
at the crema<strong>to</strong>rium or, if required, no ceremony need take place.<br />
Memorial services can be conducted separately from the<br />
cremation ceremony in local places of worship by arrangement<br />
with the Minister concerned.<br />
How is a cremation arranged?<br />
A number of arrangements need <strong>to</strong> be made following a death. The<br />
responsibility usually falls on the Execu<strong>to</strong>r or the nearest surviving<br />
relative who may wish <strong>to</strong> approach a professional Funeral<br />
Direc<strong>to</strong>r who will undertake some of the various tasks on their<br />
behalf. The Funeral Direc<strong>to</strong>r will need <strong>to</strong> discuss with the family<br />
their requirements concerning the service arrangements and will<br />
assist in completing the necessary statu<strong>to</strong>ry and non-statu<strong>to</strong>ry<br />
forms. The Funeral Direc<strong>to</strong>r will make the practical arrangements<br />
for the collection of the deceased and will obtain the necessary<br />
Medical Certifi cates. It will be necessary <strong>to</strong> register the death and<br />
information will be provided by the Funeral Direc<strong>to</strong>r <strong>to</strong> assist in<br />
completing this duty.<br />
Do relatives need <strong>to</strong> decide at this stage about the disposal<br />
of cremated remains?<br />
The Funeral Direc<strong>to</strong>r will discuss with relatives the alternative<br />
arrangements which may be adopted for the disposal of cremated<br />
remains. It is likely that a form of authority will be required <strong>to</strong> be<br />
signed advising the crema<strong>to</strong>rium of the wishes of the family. If<br />
they are undecided it will be possible for the cremated remains <strong>to</strong><br />
be retained either at the crema<strong>to</strong>rium, for a limited period or at the<br />
Funeral Direc<strong>to</strong>r’s premises, pending a decision.<br />
What are the normal options for disposal<br />
of cremated remains?<br />
All crema<strong>to</strong>ria provide a Garden of Remembrance where cremated<br />
remains can be dispersed. Cremated remains can be removed from<br />
the crema<strong>to</strong>rium in a suitable container for disposal elsewhere.<br />
This may include interment in a grave in a cemetery or<br />
churchyard, dispersal at another crema<strong>to</strong>rium or disposal<br />
privately in a particular area selected by the family. Suitable<br />
permission should be obtained from the appropriate Authority in<br />
these cases.<br />
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22<br />
What is a Garden of Remembrance and what facilities may<br />
be provided there?<br />
The Garden of Remembrance consist of special areas, often<br />
adjacent <strong>to</strong> the crema<strong>to</strong>rium, set aside for the strewing or burying<br />
of cremated remains. They are used continually for this purpose<br />
and as a result it may not be possible or appropriate <strong>to</strong> mark or<br />
identify the exact location of individual cremated remains. The<br />
Gardens are normally arranged <strong>to</strong> provide a focal point for<br />
visi<strong>to</strong>rs and may include a variety of memorial facilities.<br />
What memorial facilities are available at<br />
the crema<strong>to</strong>rium?<br />
All crema<strong>to</strong>ria have some form of memorial facility. The most<br />
usual form of permanent memorial is the Book of Remembrance.<br />
This book is usually displayed in a special memorial chapel and<br />
entries are available for <strong>view</strong>ing on the anniversary of the date<br />
of death. Some crema<strong>to</strong>ria provide wall or kerb mounted plaques<br />
in metal or s<strong>to</strong>ne although these are normally leased for a limited<br />
period only. Roses, trees, shrubs and seats may be dedicated for<br />
periods which may be extended by agreement. The Funeral<br />
Direc<strong>to</strong>r will be aware of the memorial options available but direct<br />
enquiries <strong>to</strong> the Crema<strong>to</strong>rium Offi ce will ensure that full details<br />
are provided <strong>to</strong>gether with a scale of charges.<br />
What is the procedure followed at the crema<strong>to</strong>rium on the<br />
day of the funeral?<br />
The m<strong>our</strong>ners will normally gather at the crema<strong>to</strong>rium in the<br />
waiting room or close <strong>to</strong> the entrance of the chapel a few minutes<br />
before the appropriate time of the funeral service. It is not usual<br />
for the ceremony <strong>to</strong> commence before the publicised time. When<br />
the principal m<strong>our</strong>ners are ready <strong>to</strong> proceed, the coffi n will be<br />
conveyed in<strong>to</strong> the chapel by the Funeral Direc<strong>to</strong>r unless family<br />
bearers are used by request. The coffi n will be placed on the<br />
catafalque and m<strong>our</strong>ners will proceed in<strong>to</strong> the chapel. At the<br />
moment during the service when the committal of the body takes<br />
place the coffi n may be obscured from <strong>view</strong> by curtains or<br />
withdrawn from the chapel. At the end of the service the m<strong>our</strong>ners<br />
exit the chapel and may then inspect the fl oral tributes.<br />
What happens <strong>to</strong> the coffi n after the committal?<br />
The coffi n is withdrawn in<strong>to</strong> the committal room where the name<br />
plate is carefully checked by crema<strong>to</strong>rium staff <strong>to</strong> ensure the<br />
correct identity. An identity card will then accompany the coffi n<br />
and the resultant remains until their fi nal disposal or removal<br />
from the crema<strong>to</strong>rium.<br />
Can relatives witness the committal of the coffi n<br />
in<strong>to</strong> the crema<strong>to</strong>r?<br />
The reception of the coffi n in the committal room and its<br />
introduction in<strong>to</strong> a crema<strong>to</strong>r can be witnessed by arrangement<br />
with the Crema<strong>to</strong>rium Manager. It is preferable <strong>to</strong> advise the<br />
Funeral Direc<strong>to</strong>r of these requirements as early as possible when<br />
making the funeral arrangements.<br />
Is the cremation of a body governed by a code of ethics and<br />
working practices?<br />
Cremation Authorities who are members of the Federation of<br />
British Cremation Authorities or the Institute of Crema<strong>to</strong>rium and<br />
Cemeteries Management, and are required <strong>to</strong> operate in<br />
accordance with a Code of Cremation Practice.<br />
How soon after the service will the cremation take place?<br />
The cremation will usually be commenced shortly after the service.<br />
The Code of Cremation Practice specifi es that the cremation is<br />
always completed on the same day as the service.<br />
Is the coffi n cremated with the body?<br />
The Code requires that the coffi n be placed in the crema<strong>to</strong>r in<br />
exactly the same condition as that in which it was received at the<br />
crema<strong>to</strong>rium. Crema<strong>to</strong>rium regulations require that the coffi n and<br />
all its fi ttings and furnishings be made from materials suitable<br />
for cremation. The Environmental Protection Act 1990 has placed<br />
a new responsibility on Cremation Authorities <strong>to</strong> ensure that the<br />
process is completed under controlled conditions which will<br />
minimise the impact on the environment. In these circumstances it<br />
will be necessary for any items included in the coffi n for<br />
presentation or <strong>view</strong>ing purposes <strong>to</strong> be removed by the Funeral<br />
Direc<strong>to</strong>r before the coffi n is conveyed <strong>to</strong> the crema<strong>to</strong>rium.<br />
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24<br />
Should items of jewellery be left on a body for cremation?<br />
It is preferable that all items of jewellery be removed from the<br />
body before the coffi n is conveyed <strong>to</strong> the crema<strong>to</strong>rium. The Funeral<br />
Direc<strong>to</strong>r should ascertain y<strong>our</strong> wishes in respect of this matter<br />
when the funeral arrangements are being discussed. It will not be<br />
possible <strong>to</strong> recover any items of jewellery after the coffi n has been<br />
received at the crema<strong>to</strong>rium.<br />
Can more than one body be cremated in a crema<strong>to</strong>r at the<br />
same time?<br />
The Code insists that each cremation is carried out separately.<br />
Exceptions may be made in the case of mother and baby or twin<br />
children providing the next of kin has made a specifi c request in<br />
this regard.<br />
What happens <strong>to</strong> the cremated remains after cremation?<br />
At the conclusion of a cremation the cremated remains are<br />
removed in their entirety and conveyed <strong>to</strong> a treatment area in<br />
a special container. Ferrous metals used in the construction of<br />
the coffi n or metals used in medical implants are extracted and<br />
retained for separate disposal within the crema<strong>to</strong>rium grounds.<br />
Non- ferrous metals which may include an unrecognisable element<br />
of precious material will not be salvaged for any purpose and will<br />
be disposed of in accordance with the requirements of the Code<br />
of Cremation Practice and this will invariably be by burial in the<br />
crema<strong>to</strong>rium grounds.<br />
What procedures are followed <strong>to</strong> ensure that cremated<br />
remains are kept separate?<br />
A crema<strong>to</strong>r can physically accept only one coffi n at a time and<br />
all remains are removed before the unit can be used again. The<br />
identity card referred <strong>to</strong> previously accompanied the coffi n and<br />
cremated remains throughout the process until fi nal disposal. The<br />
Code of ethics and practical necessity are complementary and<br />
combine <strong>to</strong> ensure that the separation of cremated remains<br />
is achieved.<br />
How are cremated remains treated at the crema<strong>to</strong>rium?<br />
Cremated remains are removed from the crema<strong>to</strong>r only when no<br />
further reduction is possible. The remains are withdrawn in<strong>to</strong> a<br />
cooling area and fi nally in<strong>to</strong> a special container for transfer <strong>to</strong> a<br />
purpose made unit which, after removal of ferrous metals, will<br />
reduce the residue <strong>to</strong> a fi ne consistency suitable for s<strong>to</strong>rage and<br />
eventual disposal. The remains are enclosed in a suitable and<br />
carefully identifi ed container <strong>to</strong> await dispersal or collection.<br />
What quantity of remains will there be following<br />
a cremation?<br />
The cremation of an adult will normally result in the presentation<br />
of cremated remains weighing between 2 and 4 kg (4-8 lbs).<br />
What happens <strong>to</strong> the cremated remains strewn<br />
on the ground?<br />
The cremated remains, which have assumed a granular form,<br />
are normally distributed over a wide are of ground. Chemical<br />
reactions resulting from exposure <strong>to</strong> the elements quickly break<br />
down the remains so that eventually little trace of them can<br />
be observed.<br />
Can cremated remains be interred and marked<br />
with a memorial?<br />
The Gardens of Remembrance attached <strong>to</strong> a crema<strong>to</strong>rium do not<br />
provide for the erection of permanent memorials. At crema<strong>to</strong>ria<br />
where the burial of cremated remains is practised, it is not usual<br />
for them <strong>to</strong> be buried in a container of any kind. If it is required<br />
<strong>to</strong> inter cremated remains in a grave with traditional facilities for<br />
memorialisation, suitable enquiry should be made <strong>to</strong> the Manager<br />
responsible for the selected cemetery.<br />
Can cremated remains be retained by the family pending<br />
fi nal disposal?<br />
The Applicant for cremation may collect and retain the cremated<br />
remains if required. Cremated remains can be retained at the<br />
crema<strong>to</strong>rium for a limited period although a charge may be made<br />
for this facility.<br />
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26<br />
What arrangements can be made <strong>to</strong> ensure that cremation<br />
is the selected method of disposal following death?<br />
Clear instructions in writing should be given <strong>to</strong> the person who will<br />
be responsible for making the funeral arrangements. Such<br />
instructions are not binding in law and it will therefore be<br />
necessary <strong>to</strong> ensure that the person instructed is someone who is<br />
likely <strong>to</strong> carry out the wishes of the deceased. The fi nal decision<br />
will rest on the execu<strong>to</strong>rs.<br />
Can more information be obtained concerning cremation<br />
and if required can a crema<strong>to</strong>rium be visited by members<br />
of the public?<br />
The matters referred <strong>to</strong> previously may be discussed in more detail<br />
with the Manager of the local crema<strong>to</strong>rium. The Manager will be<br />
pleased <strong>to</strong> answer further questions and make arrangements for<br />
any member of the public <strong>to</strong> be accompanied on a visit <strong>to</strong><br />
the crema<strong>to</strong>rium.<br />
Website, Virtual T<strong>our</strong>s & Services Online<br />
Many visi<strong>to</strong>rs <strong>to</strong> the Crema<strong>to</strong>rium have expressed a desire <strong>to</strong><br />
contribute <strong>to</strong>wards maintaining and enhancing the fl oral<br />
beauty of the gardens and woodlands.<br />
27
A Guiding Light<br />
<strong>Breakspear</strong> Crema<strong>to</strong>rium<br />
<strong>Breakspear</strong> Road, Ruislip, Middlesex, HA4 7SJ<br />
Telephone: 01895 556560<br />
Email: bcrema<strong>to</strong>rium@hillingdon.gov.uk<br />
Website: www.breakspearcrema<strong>to</strong>rium.org