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West Berkshire Crematorium

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West Berkshire Crematorium

West Berkshire Crematorium, part of Westerleigh Group, opened in 2006, offering a peaceful rural setting. West Berkshire Crematorium in Berkshire.

Set in 10 acres, it features a chapel seating 96, with additional standing space and outdoor speakers. Designed to resemble the appearance of a country house, whilst nestled in 10 acres of countryside.

11/08/2025

Work continues to progress steadily on the East Lothian Crematorium project, being delivered by City Gate Construction.

Last week, we completed the chapel ceiling and continued with the work on the formation of pathways/roadways, the car park, the floral tribute area and the remaining plastering.

This week, we expect to receive all timber deliveries, complete the overflow carpark, continue with the landscaping and finish the draining to the surrounding building.

It’s exciting to see this build taking shape every week as we get closer to completion – and soon, we’ll be serving the Edinburgh community.

07/08/2025

We’re proud to launch Westerleigh Funeral Plans – a new range of trust-backed funeral plans specifically created for funeral directors to offer to their local families.

By combining national strength with local expertise, these plans offer families peace of mind while supporting funeral directors to serve their communities.

Westerleigh Funeral Plans offer:
• A guaranteed cremation at any Westerleigh Group crematorium
• Flexible options from attended services to direct cremation.
• Fixed pricing to protect families from rising funeral costs
• Support for the family throughout the funeral arrangements, provided by the local funeral director.
• Low admin fee to maximise funds for the funeral itself
• Simple onboarding and dedicated account management

With over 30 years of experience and 41 crematoria nationwide, we support over 74,000 families each year. These new plans ensure we continue delivering exceptional care, working with funeral director and supporting local families in their time of need.

To learn more about how Westerleigh Funeral Plans can support your funeral business and the families you serve, visit our website: https://ow.ly/KgSr50WBlOy

30/07/2025

Can you guess where I am today? Working at West Berkshire Crematorium and as part of the Westerleigh Group , we have the opportunity to help out our colleagues and friends from other crematoria within the group. So, today I have the absolute pleasure of supporting Josie, the manager of the New Forest Crematorium at the New Forest and Hampshire County Show . It's a beautiful day and we would absolutely LOVE to see you, so if you're here or planning to visit, drop by and say hello!

29/07/2025

After 15 months of growth, development, and hard work, we’re proud to congratulate our latest Manager in Training graduates.

From their first day in March 2024—bringing a mix of nerves and excitement—this talented group has gone from strength to strength. Their journey concluded with three impactful presentations delivered to a panel of leaders from across Westerleigh Group, demonstrating their confidence, growth, and leadership potential.

👏 During the programme, three internal promotions took place—an incredible reflection of their dedication and drive.

We’re incredibly proud of each and every one of them. Watching their development has been inspiring, and we can’t wait to see what they achieve next.

28/07/2025

Our East Lothian Crematorium & Memorial Gardens project continues to take shape, with significant progress made on site last week.

All glazing and windows have now been installed, and major works to the car park, drainage systems, and roofing are complete. Internally, the chapel ceiling has been plastered and eaves detailing finalised, while installation of cremator room equipment is well underway. The boundary wall and fencing are progressing well, and SPEN works have been completed with the new meter now fitted.

As we move into the next phase, work is continuing on the stone façade at the main entrance, the reception porch is taking form, and pathways through the garden areas are being laid. The final internal finishes are also advancing across several rooms.

We’re incredibly proud of the care and attention going into every aspect of this build. Once complete, East Lothian Crematorium will provide a peaceful, thoughtfully designed space for the local community for many years to come.

Thank you to City Gate Construction and all our partners for their continued hard work and dedication.

13/07/2025

This weekend, working alongside West Berkshire Funeral Directors we were deeply honoured to host a Hindu funeral service at West Berkshire Crematorium on a Saturday, following the passing of a loved one just two days earlier.

We recognise how important it is for families to observe cultural and spiritual traditions, especially in times of profound grief. It was a privilege to be able to support the family during such a difficult time, ensuring their wishes were met with dignity, care, and sensitivity.

Our team worked with compassion and urgency to accommodate the service, understanding the significance of timely rites within the Hindu faith. We are truly grateful to have been entrusted with this responsibility and are committed to continuing our support for all communities with respect, empathy, and dedication.

11/07/2025

Work continues to progress steadily on the East Lothian Crematorium project, being delivered by City Gate Construction.

This week saw continued stonework on the main entrance, further development of the chapel ceiling, and roofing works including tiling, leadwork, and flat roof membrane installation. Windows and glazing are being installed, plastering has begun in key internal areas, and work on the floral tribute walkway is well underway. The coffin store roof has now been completed, and boundary wall construction using reclaimed stone is progressing.

Looking ahead, next week will focus on completing the stone facade around the entrance, building the reception porch, advancing roofing and drainage work, and continuing with internal finishes. Equipment for the cremator room is due to arrive, and fencing work along the boundary lines will continue.

Thank you to everyone on-site for the continued hard work and dedication as we move closer to completion.

09/07/2025

We’re incredibly proud of our colleague Danni from Charing Crematorium, who has just passed the halfway point of her 12-month charity challenge! 💪🌟

Over the past 6 months, Danni has been pushing herself mentally and physically with a series of incredible fundraising activities – from gruelling walks and fitness challenges to community events, all to support charities close to her heart.

Her passion, determination, and drive to make a difference are truly inspiring.

Check out her journey so far and what’s still to come: https://ow.ly/Lkva50Wmk6u

04/07/2025

Who doesn’t enjoy ticking things off the to-do list?

City Gate Construction Ltd at East Lothian Crematorium certainly made great progress this week, with several key tasks now complete:

· Stonework to both West and East elevations
· Roofing works
· Compressed gravel paths to the northeast elevation
· Wet verge installation

There’s still plenty to do ahead of opening later this year, but it's fantastic to see momentum building as we move closer to completion.

We’ll continue sharing updates as we reach more milestones.

02/07/2025

We’re proud to announce that Westerleigh Group Ambassador Alan José has been elected Deputy President of The Federation of Burial and Cremation Authorities - FBCA - representing 85% of UK cremation authorities.

With over 40 years in bereavement profession, Alan’s passion and leadership continue to make a lasting impact. He previously served as FBCA President during the Covid-19 pandemic and has been on its executive committee since 2016.

A well-deserved recognition for a true ambassador of care, compassion, excellence and expert knowledge in our industry.

Head here to find out more https://tinyurl.com/nemszamn

27/06/2025

East Lothian Crematorium, week 48! We’re making strong headway on the development, with works advancing across all key areas of the build. This week's focus included:

· Stonework across the main entrance and east/west elevations
· Pathway formation and landscaping in the garden area
· Chapel ceiling boarding and skim coat application
· Stone and membrane works for car park paving
· Tiling works on the roof of the cremator room chimney area
· Kerbing across car park zones
· Electrical containment in reception, transfer rooms and garden store
· Window installation and glazing
· Decorative works to eaves, steelwork and cremator room ceiling

Every day and detail counts as we work to deliver a beautiful and respectful place of remembrance for the East Lothian community.

Thank you to everyone involved for your hard work.

27/06/2025

NAME THE BEEHIVES - COMPETITION WINNERS ANNOUNCEMENT BELOW!

25/06/2025

We’re proud to share that four Westerleigh Group crematoria have been praised for their excellent level of service following recent inspections by the Federation of Burial and Cremation Authorities (FBCA).

Test Valley Crematorium, Forest Park Hainault Crematorium, Wessex Vale Crematorium and Charing Crematorium were all commended for their high standards, professionalism, and the compassionate care shown by their teams.

👏 A huge well done to all our colleagues at these sites — your dedication and commitment to supporting families with dignity and respect continues to shine.

Read the full article here: https://ow.ly/Scu350WfoOK

24/06/2025

This week, West Berkshire Crematorium had the honour of hosting a truly personal and moving farewell for a beloved motorcycle enthusiast.

Arranged by Camp Hopson Funeral Directors, as the cortege arrived, a full Biker Guard of Honour lined the route, their engines reverberating through the grounds in a powerful tribute of respect and solidarity. The sound was not just noise—it was a celebration of life, passion, and brotherhood.

This final ride was a fitting farewell for someone who lived life on two wheels and touched the hearts of many. He was loved deeply and will be missed dearly.

Our thoughts are with his family, friends, and the wider biking community.

24/06/2025

A lovely example at Mercia Forest Crematorium of a how a service can be made uniquely personal to reflect the hobbies and passions of your loved one.

23/06/2025

Memorials are more than objects—they're stories, memories, and love made lasting.
With our new Online Memorials website, you can create a lasting tribute, whether it’s a keepsake, urn, or unique piece of memorial jewellery.
Visit: westberkshirecrematorium.co.uk/memorials-online/

22/06/2025

We work hard to keep our content insightful, helpful, informative and supportive.

If you’ve found value in what we share, we’d be truly grateful if you passed it on by sharing our page or a post with your own network.

At West Berkshire Crematorium, we’re here for our community — and your share could help someone who needs support, even if they don’t know it yet.

Thank you for being part of our online family.

20/06/2025

Competition Time!

We’re buzzing with news! At West Berkshire Crematorium, we care about biodiversity – so we’ve teamed up with some brilliant local beekeepers and are now sponsoring two busy beehives.

Bees are amazing – they pollinate plants, help grow our food, and keep nature ticking along. Total legends.

Now we need your help… it's time to name the hives!
Here are a few ideas to get you going:

* Buzzingham Palace
* Bee-yoncé Mansion
* Honeypot Hive

Think you can do better? Pop your best name ideas in the comments. The top two will be announced right here – and there might just be a prize in it for the winners!

Let the hive-naming begin!

17/06/2025

Giving Back Through Metal Recycling After Cremation

We want to share something truly meaningful that happens behind the scenes — all thanks to the kindness and generosity of the families we support.

Following cremation, any metals that are not returned to the family are respectfully collected and recycled by a specialist company. The proceeds from this process are donated entirely to charities chosen by us.

Because of your compassion, we’re proud to share that donations to charities this year include:

Thames Valley Air Ambulance https://www.tvairambulance.org.uk/
Child Bereavement UK https://www.childbereavementuk.org/
Cruse Bereavement Support https://www.cruse.org.uk/
Charlie Waller Trust https://charliewaller.org/

These donations help provide life-saving services, grief support, and mental health resources to those who need it most. Please follow each of the links above to find out a bit more about these amazing charities, the incredible work they do in our community and how our donations make a difference.

Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for helping us turn something final into something truly giving.

15/06/2025

On this Father's Day, we hold in our hearts everyone who is remembering a much-missed father, or father figure 💙

Our Gardens of Remembrance remain open to all who seek a quiet space for reflection and remembrance. Whether you choose to visit, light a candle, or simply take a moment in your own way, we hope today brings comfort and cherished memories.

11/06/2025

Today we had the honour of holding a beautiful and very moving funeral service at West Berkshire Crematorium that was arranged by AB Walker & Son Ltd Funeral Directors, as we said goodbye to a truly lovely lady. The "Occasions Singers" filled the chapel with the most heartfelt and uplifting music, creating a special and comforting atmosphere for all who gathered to remember her.

Its always lovely to see such personal and meaningful touches added to a service. If you’ve enjoyed our footage and would like to know more about this wonderful choir, you can find them here: http://www.occasionssingers.org/

02/06/2025

Happy Pride Month!

June is a time to celebrate love, identity, and the vibrant diversity of the LGBTQ+ community. It's more than just a month of parades and rainbow flags — it's a powerful reminder of the ongoing fight for equality and acceptance.

Pride Month honours the legacy of the Stonewall Riots of June 1969, a pivotal moment in LGBTQ+ history that sparked a movement for justice and human rights. We reflect on the courage of those who stood up, and we continue to support and uplift voices that deserve to be heard.

To all in the LGBTQ+ community: we see you, we support you, and we celebrate you — this month and every month. 🏳️‍🌈❤️

Address

West Berkshire Crematorium, Bath Road
Thatcham
RG194LD

Opening Hours

Monday	9am - 5pm
Tuesday	9am - 5pm
Wednesday	9am - 5pm
Thursday	9am - 5pm
Friday	9am - 5pm

Telephone

+441635872577

Website

https://westberkshirecrematorium.co.uk/

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