My job is extremely varied, I rarely work at the same place twice in a week, and each crematorium, cemetery, or burial ground is different. The one thing they do have in common is that they are all very open to the elements, are almost always perched on the top of a hill, and generally have stunning views.
When I deliver a service at Westall Park, a Natural Burial Ground, I know that I will need to wrap up warm, be prepared for rain, wear flat shoes or boots, but most of all that I will get to enjoy the wonderful view and the tranquillity that wraps itself around you as soon as you arrive. (Oh, and don't forget the extra strong hold hairspray)!
It doesn't matter what time of year it is, which season we are in, the peace and natural surroundings are always a pleasure to be in.
The staff give you the warmest of welcomes, and nothing is too much trouble. You instantly feel at ease. Each plot is carefully recorded, with absolute precision. This helps me enormously, as I always pop in before a burial to check exactly where the plot is.
The wooden gazebo provides some shelter from the elements, and I love the fact that I can have my back to the countryside, allowing the family to look beyond me if things get too much for them. Obviously there is no power in the Gazebo, so you do need to plan ahead if you wish to have music, but a battery powered speaker works perfectly well.
There is no time restriction. It is rare to have more than one funeral on any day, and therefore there is no feeling of being rushed. Saying goodbye can take as long as you need it to take.
I always think about the people who's services I have delivered at each venue, whenever I am there. At Westall Park it is wonderful to be able to see the plot from the Gazebo, and just spend a few moments reflecting on that person and their life story.
I feel absolutely privileged to be able to do my job. To be able to do it in such beautiful surroundings makes it even more special.
To find out more about Westall Park visit www.natural-burials.co.uk or to find a Natural Burial Ground near you visit http://www.naturaldeath.org.uk/index.php?page=natural-burial-grounds