A funeral director that has supported families across Washington and Gateshead for more than two decades has officially opened a new funeral home in Leam Lane.
Walker & Morrell Funeral Directors celebrated its new branch in Fewster Square with a special ribbon cutting ceremony and community open day.
Local residents were invited to meet the team, look around the new funeral home and ask questions about funerals and the support available to bereaved families. The event was attended by staff, friends, family members, local clergy, residents and representatives from local charities.
The ribbon was cut by Rev. Gareth Rowlands, Lead Chaplain at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital, before Rev. Rupert Kallus of St Andrew’s Church in Leam Lane led a special blessing of the chapel of rest.
Martin Morrell, Area Development Manager at Walker & Morrell Funeral Directors, said: “We have supported the people and families of Washington and Gateshead since 2002, and opening in Leam Lane gives us the opportunity to provide the same valuable, high-quality service from somewhere more local.
“It also means families can have the reassurance of knowing their loved one is nearer to them at what can be an incredibly difficult time.”
The open day gave visitors an opportunity to see the new chapel of rest and speak openly with the funeral directors. The team was also able to answer questions and help dispel some of the myths and uncertainty that can surround funerals and funeral services.
The Leam Lane funeral home is led by Funeral Director Samantha Rutherford, supported by Nicola Lynn and Natalie Holywell from Walker & Morrell’s other branches.
Samantha said: “I am excited to be working for Walker & Morrell, which has such a strong reputation for providing caring and comforting support to families.
“I am here to support the people of Leam Lane, whether they need immediate help, would like some guidance or simply want to understand more about the choices available. Our aim is to help every family create a funeral that feels fitting and personal.”
Alongside opening the new funeral home, Walker & Morrell is strengthening its links with the Leam Lane community through partnerships with two local sports clubs. The funeral director is supporting grassroots football through a sponsorship arrangement with Leam Rangers Football Club, including sponsoring the club’s Player of the Month award. It is also sponsoring a tee box at The Ravensworth Golf Club.
Martin added: “Being part of a community means more than simply having premises there. We want to support local organisations and build relationships with the people who live and work around us. Leam Rangers and The Ravensworth Golf Club both bring people together, and we are delighted to be supporting them.”
Walker & Morrell Funeral Directors also has branches in Washington and Old Durham Road, Gateshead.
Members of the community are welcome to visit the new funeral home in Fewster Square, meet the team or ask for information and guidance.
For further information, visit www.walkerandmorrell.co.uk.
