A BURIAL ground with a difference is being created at Entwistle - and even family pets can be laid to rest there.

The West Pennine Remembrance Park, set in woodland overlooking the Wayoh reservoir, aims to provide people with an alternative to traditional burial or cremation.

Its designer, Donald Boddy, of Ecopartnerships, said that in contrast to traditional burial grounds a more vibrant environment was on offer to celebrate the lives of loved ones.

He said: "The concept of woodland burial is an ancient one - traditionally it involved being buried with a tree on top of you.

"In the last few years there has been a great movement towards alternative styles of burial.

"There are other remembrance parks in the country which I have designed but this one is unique in terms of the services and choices it offers."

Unlike traditional layouts of churches and cemeteries the park's burial areas are laid in circles around trees or curved around footpaths, in keeping with the natural environment and local heritage. Single or family plots can be bought, with room for urns and even the family pet.

Mr Boddy said: "The focus here is on life. We are planning a nature trail, bluebell walks, music in the park and other regular events, to make it a more memorable and pleasurable place for all the family, whether they are visiting a loved one already departed this life or simply want to enjoy the place they have chosen as their own."

The park is non-denominational and offers people and families of all creeds and cultures the chance to reserve burial plots and have ashes scattered or interred in an area they have chosen to match their own identity.

In designing the layout of the park, research has been conducted into the history and character of trees, plants and herbs so that plots can be chosen that best suit the individual.

Plots are limited in number and bought on a 100-year lease, at the end of which time the park will be allowed to return to natural woodland. The concept is one of the circle of life, in which life, growth and regeneration form a circle.

Owners and their families will have unlimited access to the park during opening hours. Designed to crate a peaceful, safe and secure environment for visitors, the park has a woodland pavilion to rest and reflect in, along with a reception building and information point with sitting room and kitchen.

Anyone wishing to visit the West Pennine Remembrance Park in Entwistle Hall Lane can go to the open days on October 20 and 21 between 10am and 4pm. Tours at other times can be arranged by appointment. Directions to the park on 01204 856848. The park will officially open in June.