Options for the Resting Place of Cremated Remains
Cremated remains have often been strewn on the Garden of Remembrance. Families who have done this may say afterwards that had they understood better, they may have chosen a different final resting place for the remains of their loved one.
Strewing in the Gardens of Remembrance
There are very attractive gardens of remembrance at both Anfield and Springwood crematoria where remains can be strewn. Strewing (more commonly known as the scattering of cremated remains) can be witnessed by the family if desired, although you must ask for this facility in advance.
A disadvantage of strewing is that it is not possible to have a marker or vase at the exact spot the remains have been strewn, nor can you have any permanent form of memorial. You can usually have some form of memorialisation close by.
Often families mistakenly assume that the place in which the remains of their loved one were strewn represents an individual plot. However, it must be understood that over a period of years many thousands of cremated remains are strewn throughout the gardens of remembrance. If an individual plot is the preferred option, families need to arrange for the burial of cremated remains.
Cremated Remains Grave
It is possible to purchase a special plot designated for the burial of cremated remains. Each grave will accommodate four cremated remains caskets, thus enabling whole families to remain together if desired.
A traditional style memorial stone can be erected although it is important to plan the use of the memorial stone. This is so it will accommodate any other names likely to be inscribed on it. This is the most appropriate option where families wish to have a dedicated grave with a permanent memorial. It is also a more personal option than the strewing of cremated remains within the gardens of remembrance.
Burial of Cremated Remains in Existing Grave
It is possible for cremated remains to be buried in a grave previously used for a full earth burial, or an existing cremated remains grave. This can be achieved in such a way that the grave may still be used for further burials if sufficient depth allows.
Again, this option allows for a traditional memorial. For an interment within an existing grave the authority and signature of the owner to the Right of Burial of the grave will be required.
Woodland Burial of Cremated Remains
A woodland burial area has been developed at Springwood Crematorium specifically for the natural resting place of cremated remains. The cremated remains are poured loosely into a shallow grave; which can be witnessed by the family if desired.
The location of the remains is marked with an inscribed marker which remains in position for a 10-year period with the option to renew after this time. Over a period of years nature takes its course and the elements of the weather wash the remains through the soil structure; thus making the area reusable.
Colonnade Niche
The colonnade wall situated at Anfield Crematorium is an alternative to the formal strewing or burial of cremated remains. The scheme provides for the placement of cremated remains within a niche that accommodates up to two sets of cremated remains within individual caskets. This is fronted by an inscribed plaque with the inscription chosen by the family. A wooden casket is supplied with this option.
Families may wish to witness the placing of the cremated remains within the niche; which can also be done as part of a service. Families should note that the cremated remains are placed within the niche for a lease period of either five or ten years. The lease may be extended for a further period, with the fee at that time being applicable. In the event of the cremated remains not being claimed or the lease period not being extended; the cremated remains shall; after a period of three moths; be strewn in the gardens of remembrance.
Removal of Cremated Remains for Private Disposal
Cremated remains may be collected from Allerton Cemetery Lodge by either the applicant's chosen funeral director or the applicant in person.
A certificate of cremation will be issued and must be kept safely. It may be required should you wish to arrange for the burial of the cremated remains in the future.