What Happens When the Curtains Close at a UK Crematorium?
In a crematorium where the curtains close around the coffin, or we leave the chapel, what happens to that coffin? Behind the catafalque, which is the thing the coffin was placed on, are hidden doors, or some mechanism by which the coffin could be transported on rollers through into another building, which is called the crematory.
Within the crematory are the cremators, and the coffin is put in front of the cremator, the doors will open and a hydraulic ram on the trolley will push the coffin very quickly into the cremator. The door closed behind it, and the process, which is computerized, then takes place. Now, for many religions, Hindus and Sikhs in particular, witnessing that charging, is important to them as they would normally in their own religion, have the cremation take place on an open pyre. That can be accommodated by most crematoria with limited numbers of people.
Are You Looking For a Local funeral director near you in or in the Sevenoaks area?
We are here to help you in your time of need, any time of day or night. 24/7, 7 days-a-week. We are here for you.
We have local funeral homes across west Kent and south east London.
The most popular – and most surprising – funeral songs we’ve heard
by Simon Welham
As a funeral director serving communities across West Kent and South East London, I’ve witnessed firsthand how music can profoundly shape a farewell. Whether you’re arranging a funeral in Sevenoaks, considering a pre-paid funeral plan in Tonbridge, or simply exploring options in Chislehurst and Bromley, understanding the role of music can be invaluable.
Today, cremation is the most popular choice when it comes to funerals in the UK. As funeral directors operating across West Kent and South East London, Welham Jones Funeral Directors see first hand how it outranks burial even more sharply in this crowded corner of the country where land is at a premium. Yet, surprisingly, just under a 150 years ago, the practice was still illegal. Why was that, and what changed for it to overtake traditional burials?
Choosing a funeral director is an important decision. Organising a funeral for a loved one – or planning your own funeral – is a key milestone event in your life. But how can you tell whether the funeral directors you are considering will treat you with professionalism, respect and empathy, that they will treat your loved one with dignity, and that they will deliver on the day? Our guide will help you make the right choice.