ARTHUR W Bryant Funeral Service held its first memorial service, hosted this year by St Michael and All Angels’ Church, Bude, on Saturday, January 27.

Families the company had supported in 2017 were invited to attend and more than 80 family members participated, lighting candles to represent their loved ones.

The Rev Alison Hardy officiated at the service. Prayers were led by Deacon Debbie Marsh representing the local Methodist community and Mrs Amanda St John, a funeral celebrant, read a poem.

The ‘roll of honour’ was read by members of the Arthur W Bryant Funeral Service staff.

Refreshments were provided following the service and people were invited to take home their candle and a commemorative bookmark as mementoes.

A similar event is planned for next year.

Managing director, Kingsley Bryant said: “We are pleased that so many people could join us. This was an event for us to remember and honour all those who passed away in 2017. We all have our own personal memories of our loved ones, but an event like this reminds us that we are not alone and are united with others in feelings of loss and grief.”