A crematorium in Bromley has dedicated Christmas trees in memory of local loved ones.

Beckenham Crematorium & Cemetery has erected three memorial Christmas trees, to commemorate people who have passed away in 2020.

In recognition of a difficult year, the 7ft trees accompany a plaque marking the strength of Beckenham residents during the coronavirus pandemic.

Due to current restrictions, traditional memorial services have been more challenging than in previous years.

The memorial pays tribute to members of the community who have lost loved ones, as well as recognising the work done by essential workers such as carers and NHS employees to protect the most vulnerable.

News Shopper: Memoiral plaque at CMG crematorium Memoiral plaque at CMG crematorium

During November, families supported by the crematorium over the past year were invited to dedicate a personalised star to their loved ones which were placed on the trees.

The 7ft trees are in place outside the main office and, it is hoped once lockdown restrictions ease in December, that the memorial will be accessible for socially distanced visits from family and friends.

The crematorium, owned by The Crematorium and Memorial Group (CMG) has also made a donation to local charity, St Christopher’s Hospice, bringing its fundraising total to £23,000 to local charities.

Nina Martin-Richmond from Beckenham Crematorium & Cemetery said: “This year has been immensely challenging for our community, and will be particularly hard for those who are recently bereaved.

“With many memorial services and events unable to go ahead, we hope that our memorial Christmas trees offer comfort and reflection for those that have lost loved ones this year. “Our teams continue to do everything possible to provide families with support at this difficult time, and are committed to ensuring that families are able to arrange a respectful funeral for their loved ones.”

Employees working at CMG, which operates 46 crematoriums across England and Scotland, are continuing to provide families with a reliable service that ensures they can arrange a respectful funeral for their loved ones.