A LANDMARK occasion in creating a new crematorium on the edge of Andover has been commemorated by the town’s religious leaders and funeral directors.

Pure Cremation marked the start of construction at Charlton Park Crematorium in Hatherden Road with an official ground-breaking ceremony.

The event was attended by co-founders Bryan and Catherine Powell, along with Canon Jill Bentall and Reverend Alex Randle-Bissell, vicar of Charlton, representatives from independent funeral providers S & J Maddocks and contractors Amiri Constructions.

Rev Bentall said: “I was glad to have the chance to visit the site and be part of the official ceremony as work begins.

“We and others involved in funeral care in the area look forward to working with Pure Cremation to provide the best possible service to all who need it.”

When work is complete in spring 2019 the crematorium is expected to meet the needs of Andover locals and will offer direct cremations for people from across England and Wales.

Catherine Powell, director and co-founder of Pure Cremation, explained why it was so important to involve others who support the bereaved in Andover at such an early stage in the build programme: “The vision for Charlton Park Crematorium is of a valued community asset local people can be proud of, and which will provide families with the quality farewell experience they deserve – whatever their final wishes may be. We are already working closely with the likes of clergy, civil celebrants and funeral home staff to achieve this vision and to meet the changing needs of Andover’s families."