Read in detail about the cremation process in the crematory.
The cremation process
Duration
Cremation can take 1 to 3 hours and there are several factors that determine how long the process takes. Factors can include the type of coffin used and the size of the deceased.
It then takes up to two hours for cooling before a cremation technician removes all ashes, fragments and metals remaining into a container.
Caring for the deceased and identifying the cremated remains
Your loved one will have a unique identification card which will go with them through every stage of the cremation process. The card stays with them until the cremated remains are collected from our care.
The details of this card are checked at every step of the cremation process, ensuring that the ashes you receive are absolutely those of your loved one.
Removal of metals
The cremation technician will use a magnet to remove any metals. The metals are usually nails from the coffin, or metals from surgeries. With permission, the metals are donated to our metal recycling scheme charity.
When these are removed the cremated remains are placed in a special machine called a cremulator which turns the ashes into a fine consistency. The ashes are then placed into a biodegradable casket, clearly labelled and your loved one's unique identification card placed inside, ready for collection - depending on the arrangements you have made with your funeral directors.
If you wish to have the cremated remains of your loved one interred, the biodegradable casket the ashes are placed in is approved for burial within our cemeteries.
Memorial options
Once you have collected the cremated remains of your loved one, you may wish to consider one of our memorial options.
Support for the Bereaved
If you, or someone you know, needs extra support during this difficult time, there are some organisations that can help.