THIS section is intended to be of assistance to those people who may not wish to organise a traditional style funeral.

There are aspects of the organisation of a funeral which can be carried out by members of the deceased’s family – for example the removal from the place of death – family bearers carrying the coffin – use of a family estate car instead of a traditional hearse etc.

There is also discussion about cardboard or wicker coffins, ‘green’ funerals and woodland burials. Some thoughts are detailed below which may be helpful in deciding the type of funeral to be organised.

Woodland burial sites
There are two woodland burial grounds in Buckinghamshire that aim to give families as alternative to the traditional cemetery were interments tend to be in regimented rows and with formal stone memorials.

Woodland sites provide burial plots in a natural setting where stone memorials are not permitted but where it is customary to plant a tree as a living memorial to the deceased.

Once matured these areas provide a habitat where wildlife may thrive and where relatives can come to visit and grieve in a 'nature reserve' style of environment.

The traditional Parkside Cemetery in Hedgerley is operated by South Bucks District Council principally for use by residents of the area, although non-residents may use the facility on payment of a relatively small surcharge on the normal fees.

There is also a recently established green burial ground in Olney in the north of the county. Dacorum Borough Council have a woodland burial site at Woodwells Cemetery in Hemel Hempstead.

Coffins and the environment
Many people express concern about the use of natural materials and the impact this hay have on potential deforestation as well as causing pollution.

All coffins in the range offered by Arnold Funeral Service, with the exception of the American Casket section, whether veneered or solid timbers, are fully biodegradable.

Fully illustrated details of veneered and solid timber coffins and caskets are shown in our Traditional range.

Details of cardboard, bamboo, woven willow coffins and Ecopods are shown in our Alternative range.