PEOPLE are undecided on what to do with their loved ones' ashes as cremation becomes an ever-more popular option for funerals in Cumbria.

Co-op Funeralcare said cremations are increasingly popular, accounting for 80 per cent of services now being conducted at the business.

But YouGov research conducted on behalf of Co-op Funeralcare highlights that when it comes to decisions about their loved ones’ ashes, many families in Cumbria are struggling to find closure after the service.

The research, which questioned 2,053 UK adults who have suffered a bereavement in the last five years, found that in Cumbria, 16 per cent of individuals that had opted for cremation for their loved one were unaware of where their loved ones’ ashes are located, or unsure what to do with their loved ones’ ashes.

Dorothy Dugdale, funeral service manager for Co-op Funeralcare Cumbria, has supported many Cumbrians in the process of deciding which memorial options were best suited for their families.

Discussing the various options available for ashes, Dorothy said: “When asked about the work we do, we always say that we look after the living just as much as those who have passed away.

'Our Memory Bears have proven to be a favourite choice for many'

“Caring for families after the funeral is one of our top priorities and part of that means we are here to advise on the options available for the most authentic and respectful send-off for their lost loved one.

“Deciding about ashes can be very difficult, particularly when the person who passed away left no guidance as to their wishes.”

When asked about the most popular memorial options for those wishing to keep their loved ones’ ashes with the family, Dorothy added: “We’ve noticed more and more families are looking to create a meaningful keepsake as their way of finding closure - and for that our Memory Bears have proven to be a favourite choice for many.

“The bears are designed using clothing items from a lost loved one’s wardrobe, and often include an ashes pocket that helps keep the person’s memory alive whilst also offering the family a comforting heirloom.”

Other memorial items designed to help families take the first steps towards healing from the loss of a loved one include memorial jewellery, environmentally friendly caskets and urns that give back to nature when planted into the earth, biodegradable and handwoven ashes caskets, and even decorative urns designed for the outdoors.