Funeral procedures
As we continue to follow guidance issued by the Government, we are no longer restricting mourner numbers attending burials or ashes interments in our cemeteries. Please however continue to follow Government advice on preventing the spread of coronovirus.
Our cemetery chapels in Hale Carr Cemetery, Torrisholme Cemetery and Skerton Cemetery are available for funeral services. Mourner numbers in our chapels are limited to approximately 40 to allow attendees to social distance if they wish and to avoid overcrowding. Hand sanitisers have been placed at the entrance doors and to improve ventilation the Chapel doors will remain open throughout the service.
Unfortunately our chapel in Scotforth Cemetery requires further maintenance work and will remain closed at this time. We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause.
Bereavement guide
If you have been affected by the death of a loved one due to Covid-19, you might find the following document issued by the Government helpful. However, if you have any queries, please do not hesitate to contact our office.
Cemetery access
All of our cemeteries remain open, and as usual we welcome you to visit. Please respect those visiting graves and that you abide by social distancing guidelines. Dogs must remain on a lead in all areas of our cemeteries and you must dispose of dog fouling immediately - please respect that these are burial grounds and not designated dog walking areas. Fixed Penalty Notices are still being issued to those who fail to abide by these laws.
If you need to approach our staff on-site, please only do so from a safe distance. However, we would ask that you telephone the Cemeteries Office in the first instance.
Cemetery office access
Morecambe Town Hall is now closed to the public, and therefore if you have any cemeteries related queries, please contact our office by email: cemeteries@lancaster.gov.uk or by telephone: 01524 582635. As we prioritise our funeral services, please bear in mind that we may take longer to respond than usual, and we apologise in advance for any delay.
We apologise for any further upset caused to yourself and your family, and appreciate your understanding at this time.
Grounds maintenance
We are very proud to be frontline essential workers for Lancaster City Council. As such, we intend to continue with our high standard of cemetery maintenance under the importance of these sites to us and the community. Staff undertaking these roles will do so adhering to government guidelines on social distancing.
Burials will always be prioritised, and therefore maintenance of the cemeteries may not take place when usually expected.
