Isle of Wight Crematorium opening its doors to the public

The Isle of Wight Crematorium will be opening its doors to the public this week for an informal open day. The crematorium in Station Lane, Whippingham, is staging the event on Saturday (18 August) between 10am and 4pm. Visitors will see displays from a range of exhibitors such as funeral carriages, funeral directors, and headstone memorial providers. Music on the day will be provided by the Wight Diamond Marching Band and Wight Harmony. There will also be an opportunity to meet with and see how the Friends of Northwood Cemetery turned the site into an award winning Green Flag area of conservation. Ryde Social Heritage Group will also be on hand to talk about the history of Ryde. “We would like to welcome the public to the open day, where they will have unrestricted access in a relaxed and informal atmosphere to all areas of the crematorium buildings and grounds,” said Iain Donald, council bereavement services manager. “Usually the only time someone visits is when they are grieving the loss of a loved one, so I hope our open day will help dispel and resolve the many myths and anxieties that they have about the cremation and burial process.” To mark the event, the council service has chosen to raise funds for The Earl Mountbatten Hospice, Newport. The day will conclude with a memorial service at 3pm in the crematorium chapel, led by celebrants Caroline Ash and Jonathan Skeet. For further information, call (01983) 882288.