Alternative Funerals

An ‘alternative’ funeral to us, is anything that does not follow the expected track of a ‘traditional’ funeral. Many of the funerals that we arrange have some aspect of the unusual whether it be the type of coffin, the mode of transport or the location of the service, even something simple like wearing colourful clothing, rather than the traditional black. We are open to any sort of request, as long as it is legal and dignified, and of course family participation makes for a very personal farewell.

Music and poetry is a very important part of the service, especially if the service is a non religious one and therefore no hymns are included. There are no restrictions on the type of music played at funerals.

Woodland Burials

The options available in the Skipton area are Tarn Moor Memorial Woodland – see picture to the rightor Brocklands Woodland burial ground at Rathmell, near Settle.

Here at Brook Smith’s we are continually aware that all of our activities will impact upon our environment. We continuously search for ways to reduce our carbon footprint to ensure that everything we do is as kind to the environment as possible.

There are always specific requirements for a green burial ground that must be adhered to, including biodegradable coffins. Choosing a coffin made from biodegradable materials is a common way to reduce your impact on the environment. However, it is also important to know how far these coffins have travelled. That’s why at Brook Smith’s we use a local family run company in Nelson where the coffins are made on the premises.