Funerals at Wakefield and Pontefract Crematoria to be limited to 20 minutes
Wakefield Council, which runs both venues, says its made the move as a further precaution during the coronavirus pandemic.
Mourners attending services at local crematoria are already restricted to 10 in number because of COVID-19, with 20 allowed at other graveside ceremonies organised by the council.
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Hide AdFamilies of those who've died normally have the option of a 20 or 40 minute service at the crematoria.
But the lengthier option will now be removed, though relatives who've already made a 40 minute booking before April 27 will be unaffected by the change.
The council's acting chief executive, Andrew Balchin, said: "This has been a very difficult decision to make in very challenging circumstances.
"We understand that these changes will be difficult for families grieving the loss of a loved-one.
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Hide Ad"These changes have been temporarily introduced to help keep everyone who is involved, both families and staff, as safe as possible during these unprecedented times. I
"It will also enable more services to take place.
“We appreciate people’s understanding during these difficult times.”
Local Democracy Reporting Service