There is no set procedure for a funeral but traditionally the funeral procession starts at the house of the person who has died, with the coffin and cars travelling to the place where the funeral service will be. The hearse sometimes goes straight from the funeral director’s premises to the service and the mourners meet there.

The coffin is taken in to the place where the funeral service is to be held and the close members of the family usually follow and sit at the front. If it’s a burial, the coffin will be taken to the grave and lowered in to the grave while a short service is held.

If it’s a cremation, the coffin will be taken to the crematorium and placed on a stand. Towards the end of the service, music will usually play and traditionally the coffin disappears from view. If you want the coffin to remain on view until after the mourners have left, please tell the funeral director.

Remember that there will be a time limit for the service. You can book a double service time at the crematorium if you like, although this may cost extra.

After the funeral, friends and family usually get together for some refreshments.