Child burial charges waived in Much Wenlock

The town council has approved the new rules following the sudden death of a young child in August.

Councillor Yvonne Holyoak, mayor of Much Wenlock, said she had to take a call while on holiday in Anglesey to confirm the council would waive the usual burial fees.

The council was asked to approve that charges for burial plots and cremations for children under 12, only for residents of Much Wenlock parish only, become free.

Fees are usually £275 for single plot, £540 for a double plot and £180 for cremation.

Councillor Holyoak said it was important, should any similar tragic events occur, the council had something in place to help families during their time of need.

She said: "It is important the community does all it can to help during such times of need.

"I think generally people have sympathy for these things and it's important to have something in place in case it ever comes up again. It's hard enough dealing with a tragedy like that let alone trying to work out if you have to pay for a burial plot."

Councillor Holyoak said councils across the county had varying stances on the issue but she felt Much Wenlock needed regulations in place.

She said: "I just thought it's such a terrible thing to happen to anyone it would be nice for the council to waive any burial fees."

"Anything we can do at such a time in need is important."

Clerk Sharon Clayton, clerk of Much Wenlock Town Council, said the councillors had backed the proposal and the new system was now in place. She said: "The council has agreed there will not be any charge for children under 12, so long as their parents live in the parish of Much Wenlock parish."This rule will apply for single and double plots, and cremations."