Crematorium helps departed leave legacy of charity

perth: Metals retrieved from the ashes of loved ones recycled to benefit causes

Perth Crematorium has made thousands of pounds for charity by recycling metal left among the ashes of loved ones.

Steel hips, replacement knee joints, bone screws and coffin handles were recovered from so-called “cremains” at the recently reopened Crieff Road building.

The metal pieces are removed by staff before the ashes are presented to families.

Bereaved relatives need to give written consent before any of the metal is recycled, which in turn makes money for local causes.

Perth and Kinross Council generated £5,000 from recycling for Scotland’s Charity Air Ambulance team, based at Perth Airport.

Conservative councillor Angus Forbes, convener of the environment and infrastructure committee, met with members of SCAA at the crematorium.

“It is important that bereaved families know that when they allow us to recycle any recovered metals, they are being put to good use and will benefit many people,” he said.

“Local funeral directors have been briefed on the process and can explain it in greater detail to bereaved families considering making a donation of metals for recycling.

“I would like to take this opportunity on behalf of Perth and Kinross Council and the crematorium staff to thank everyone who allows this process to take place.”

While higher grade metals can be used to make new orthopaedic implants, the remainder of the metals are recycled.

The crematorium recently reopened after a £2.2 million refurbishment.

The site has been closed for services since last summer, while work got under way on a complete rewiring, new heating system and lighting upgrade.

New cremators were also installed as part of the project, which was the building’s biggest overhaul since it opened in 1962.

A new family room, reception and office area has been added, as well as large screen monitors in the entrance hall to allow mourners to see and hear services when the chapel is at capacity.

Picture: Steve MacDougall. Front: senior bereavement services officer Willie Greig, left, handing a cheque to Mike Beale from Scotland’s Charity Air Ambulance, with Councillor Angus Forbes, far right, and crematorium staff looking on.