THE chapel in St Helens Crematorium has been completely refurbished to provide an improved service to the public.

As well as totally new decoration, work includes new carpets and pews, new music system with a 'loop' for hard of hearing mourners, improved reception area and private interview room for bereaved families, better access for disabled people and improved car parking.

The work is part of a larger package at St Helens and Newton cemeteries including improvements to the grounds and cemetery paths. Public safety and security are also upgraded by a controlled access vehicle scheme and new cemetery gates at the Hard Lane entrance in St Helens.

Councillor Jeff Molyneux, chairman of Trading Services, said: "The council will continue to improve its cemetery and cremations services this year to maintain their standard as a leading local cemetery and cremation service."

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