Rows rise over loved ones’ ashes

FAMILIES are increasingly rowing over the remains of loved ones, according to lawyers.

Some disputes become so bitter that warring relatives end up flushing the ashes down the lavatory or lead to family members stealing ashes.

Mike Smoult, a member of the wills, trusts and probate team at Gorvins Solicitors, says he has seen a 68 per cent increase in people reporting underhand tactics in order to avoid letting the executor take control of the deceased’s remains.

“Hopefully, a person has left a clear and concise direction in their will of what should happen to their ashes,” he said. “However, we are seeing a huge increase in the number of people going to great lengths to make sure they get the ashes. A number of clients have reported that ashes are not always in the possession of their chosen party and I have heard that in one case the ashes have been flushed away – out of spite or control – before any decision could be made about their final resting place.”

More than three times as many Britons want to be cremated as those wishing to be buried, largely because more people are seeing cremation as the cheaper option. The average price of a cremation is £3,894, compared to £5,446 for a burial. A lack of land for burial is also said to be increasing the popularity of cremation.