New head for city cemeteries

A new bereavement services manager has been appointed to run Worcester Crematorium and Cemetery.

Iain Askew-Calvert has several years’ experience as a funeral director and previously worked in other industries. They included road haulage and retail. He started his working life in the Army.

As well as the Astwood Road cemetery and crematorium he will also be responsible for St John’s Cemetery.

He said: “I am looking forward to the new challenges that my appointment will bring. As a team, Bereavement Services are striving to achieve the highest possible standards for grieving families and to continue to deliver a respectful and dignified service for the deceased.”

Around 2,000 funerals are held at Worcester Crematorium each year – an average of between seven and eight a day. The City Council has recently invested in a new Garden of Solace, to create a quiet, reflective atmosphere beside the crematorium chapel.

Mr Askew-Calvert’s new role will see him take direct responsibility for the team carrying out grounds maintenance in both cemeteries.