A FUNERAL directors has held a Blessing and Dedication Ceremony for its new chapels of rest.

C. L. Birkett & Son Funeral Directors, now part of The Arthur Gresty Funeral Homes Family embarked on a six-month renovation and refurbishment of their premises at Higher Road in Urmston in January.

Since the refurbishment it now provides a brand new arrangement lounge, two chapels of rest, an office, kitchen and staff room and full disabled access.

The Blessing and Service of Dedication for the new Chapels was officiated by the Reverend Karen Marshall of St. Clement Church in Urmston and Christ Church in Davyhulme and also Father David Featherstone of Our Lady and the English Martyrs RC Church in Urmston, in commemoration of the refurbishment.

David Gresty, owner of Arthur Gresty Funeral Homes & C L Birkett & Son said: “The premises are a credit to both the Birkett and Gresty Family and their whole funeral team and has received great response from families it has served

“It was a fantastic occasion, not only for the new Chapels of Rest but the unity of two families with a long history in the Funeral Profession.

“We thank Reverend Karen Marshall and Father David Featherstone for making this occasion special and memorable for our families and for our future in Funeral Service.”

In 2015, on the 30th anniversary of C. L. Birkett & Son Funeral Directors, Cedric Birkett, the owner, decided to retire. The business was then handed over to the Arthur Gresty Funeral Homes Family.

Paul Birkett, Cedric’s son, has remained with the company, along with his mum Ann Birkett. Paul manages the Stretford and Urmston branches of the business, as well as arranging and conducting funerals for the parent company.