Council to keep cap on crem numbers

SEFTON Council has confirmed it is keeping social distancing and a cap of 25 people at Southport and Thornton crematoria despite the restrictions being lifted across the country.

This comes after social distancing and face mask requirements were scrapped by the government for the first time since the Covid-19 pandemic began.

The council has said it is “vitally important” to continue the restrictions due to the rising Covid rates across the area.

A spokesperson for Sefton Council said: “Throughout this incredibly difficult and uniquely challenging time, which has not yet ended, our Cemeteries and Crematoria team have been working constantly to provide as much support as possible to bereaved families in the borough.

“While we wholly understand the desire for as many people as possible to pay their respects to their loved ones, we still need to keep our venues Covid-19 secure.

“Rates of infection continue to increase, and the virus is still spreading, both in Sefton and in the wider Liverpool City Region, meaning it is vitally important that we remain cautious, including the continuation of social distancing and venue capacity limits where appropriate.

“In line with government guidance, all venue operators across the country must continue to adhere to working safely guidelines and take necessary steps to manage the risk of spreading Covid-19 in confined spaces.

“Both our chapels at Southport and Thornton currently have a limit of 25 attendees, while our chapel foyers have capacity for an additional five people.

“We also allow for additional socially distanced attendees to pay their respects outside the chapel, where they join family and loved ones in a poignant tribute.

“While a funeral ceremony during this time may not be the traditional send off families would want for their loved ones, we continue to do everything in our power to allow families to hold a more traditional memorial service at a later date.”