THE number of mourners able to attend a service at Skipton Crematorium has increased from five to ten, following a relaxing of coronavirus restrictions.

A further up to six people can also stand outside the chapel building, but Craven District Council says they must observe correct social distancing and no more are allowed, as that would be a breach of coronavirus restrictions.

Clair Cooper, bereavement services manager, said: “We would be grateful if no more than the stipulated six people congregate outside the chapel or within the cemetery grounds before the service.

“If we do get more people congregating, this could result in the outside speakers being switched off and it may ultimately result in the funeral being postponed or cancelled. “

She added: “All our services can be viewed remotely via our webcasting facilities, allowing other family members and friends to be part of the service. This can be arranged via the funeral director with the family’s consent.

“We fully appreciate how difficult it is to not be able to say goodbye in the traditional way and we are grateful to all the families who have adhered to the government’s regulations over the last few months. “

A small number of close family members have been allowed to attend funerals at the crematorium throughout the coronavirus lockdown.

The Book of Remembrance Chapel remains closed for the time being, however, the book can be viewed by visiting www.remembrance-books.com/skipton/book-of-remembrance.html

Over the next few weeks the bereavement services team will start to accept bookings for the interment or scattering of loved ones’ cremated remains.