G H Dovener & Son Funeral Services

05/09/2025

Murray’s Funeral Directors have launched a community allotment where people who have experienced grief can get together and enjoy the simple pleasures of gardening.

Thyme to Grow – a dedicated plot at the Thorntree Lane Allotments in Swadlincote is open to anyone looking to reconnect with nature, share peaceful moments, and enjoy discovering what can be grown.

Funeral Director Megan Smart who is leading the project said : “Sometimes families that we have looked after can feel lost following the funeral of their loved one, and we thought this might be a nice way to gently introduce something new to their week, where some focus can be placed".

30/08/2025

Today is National Grief Awareness Day

Found on Google from nationaldaycalendar.com

26/08/2025

As part of their fleet expansion and innovation plans, Funeral Partners have added two luxurious seven-seater Mercedes passenger vehicles to their fleet to give families in the Midlands more choice when travelling to the final goodbye of their loved ones.

A pair of chauffeur driven Mercedes Vitos are being offered as a modern alternative to limousines for mourners who want to travel together in style and comfort. They are now available for clients who arrange funerals in the Midlands at William H Painter Funeral Directors and Thomas Bragg & Sons Funeral Directors, both trusted names within the Funeral Partners network.

21/08/2025

We’re proud to announce that Karen Rattigan, Area Development Manager, has been elected Chair of the Southern District of the London Association of Funeral Directors (LAFD).

Her appointment reflects the Committee’s trust in her experience and leadership, following three years of actively attending meetings. Karen succeeds Steve Bayley, whose dedicated leadership laid strong foundations for the work ahead. She is joined by Sarah Bartlett as Vice Chair, bringing valuable insight and continuity to the team as they continue to support members and uphold professional standards across the sector.

This marks an important milestone in Karen’s continued dedication to the funeral profession, and we look forward to seeing the positive impact of her leadership in the year ahead.

13/08/2025

The management team at Funeral Partners Northern Ireland have raised more than £2,500 for Hope House Ireland with a 10km sponsored walk.

They were inspired by Regional Support Manager Emma-Jayne McClure, who spent a weekend at Hope House Ireland’s accommodation with her husband last year, amid her battle with cancer. Hope House Ireland offers people with cancer and their families a free break in a beautiful location.

08/08/2025

Congratulations to everyone who helped raise £6,760 for GOALS 4 GOSH.

A brilliant football match with ex pro’s, actors, comedians, presenters, reality tv personalities, content creators, doctors & nurses took place at Bromley FC on the 20th of July!

As principal sponsors of GOALS 4 GOSH, we at Funeral Partners were truly proud to support this special event in aid of Great Ormond Street Hospital and Charity. especially since our very own Jamie Groves (Regional Development Director for London South & South East) and his friend Charlotte Styles have been so close at the heart of this wonderful charity since day 1.

We want to thank every player, sponsor, volunteer, and supporter: thank you. You’ve helped make a difference to so many children and families, and none of this would be possible without you.

04/08/2025

Back Where It All Began

Chris Sykes has returned to George Brooke’s Funeral Directors in Dewsbury—where his passion for the profession began as a 14-year-old work experience student.

From washing limousines to earning industry qualifications funded by the Brooke family, Chris built a lasting career shaped by the kindness and wisdom of those around him.

Now back as Area Development Manager, he’s helping steer the business forward while honouring the local values that first inspired him.

"It wasn’t just a job—it was where I found my purpose."

Find out more: https://ow.ly/X03x50WxRPY

01/08/2025

Box Bros. Joins Funeral Partners

We are honoured to welcome Box Bros, a respected name in Blackpool for over a century, into the Funeral Partners family.

Founded in 1915 by Thomas Edwin Box, the business began in transport before expanding into funerals in the 1920s. Under the guidance of his grandson, Trevor Box, Box Bros. became known for pioneering services, including private ambulances and worldwide repatriation—hallmarks of their dedication to innovation and care.

Trevor’s commitment to the community helped shape the values of the business for decades. Trevor’s daughter Susan and her husband Peter chose to partner with Funeral Partners to secure the future of the company while protecting the legacy her father worked so hard to build.

Susan and Peter have decided to step back from the day-to-day business, handing the reigns to, new Diary and Logistics Manager David Potts and Funeral Manager Andrew Whitaker who have been recruited to lead the Box Bros going forwards, working alongside long-serving Office Manager Kim Bonar and the rest of the team.

David and Andrew previously worked together at Layton Funeral Directors a business which was set up by David’s father Mick and already have a wonderful relationship with the Box Bros team for many years.

Andrew has spent nearly two decades working in the funeral industry locally, and most recently ran his own business, while David worked closely with his father from a very young age, starting permanently in 1990.

The Box Bros. funeral homes in Blackpool and Poulton le Fylde will continue to serve local families with the same trusted team, compassion, and integrity as always.

We are proud to support and carry forward the remarkable legacy of the Box family in the Northwest.

31/07/2025

Welcome Knox & Son Funeral Directors to the Funeral Partners Family

Funeral Partners is proud to welcome Knox & Son Funeral Directors, one of Warrington’s longest established and most respected funeral businesses, to our growing family.

Founded in 1882 by coachbuilder and carriage master Joseph Caldwell Knox, Knox & Son has served its community with care and dedication for generations. Under the Greenwood family's leadership, the business flourished—and we’re pleased that Rachel Aitken, Business Principal, remains a key part of the team as the business begins this exciting new chapter.

Joining Funeral Partners brings valuable support in HR, marketing, administration and compliance—allowing Knox & Son to focus even more on providing the highest standards of funeral care in Warrington.

Our heartfelt thanks to Liz and Andy Greenwood for their many years of outstanding service. We wish them all the very best in retirement and are delighted that Rachel continues in her important role as the business evolves.

We look forward to helping Knox & Son build on its proud legacy and continue making a difference to the families it serves.

28/07/2025

A new defibrillator has been installed at M. Rushton Funeral Directors in Southport, in loving memory of Trevor Christian — a much-loved husband and father.

Trevor’s family, who were cared for by the team during a difficult time, kindly raised the funds for this life-saving device. A commemorative plaque has also been placed to celebrate Trevor’s life.

The defibrillator was installed by local charity Southport Saviours, who also provided the team training to ensure they’re fully prepared to use it in an emergency.

Michael Rushton, Business Principal, expressed how it was a privilege to house the device and emphasised the importance of being ready to help in critical moments.

This thoughtful gift not only honours Trevor’s memory but will also serve the wider community for years to come. 💜

25/07/2025

Whether it's your favourite or one that tells your story — let us know your flower colour.

24/07/2025

SAMARITANS AWARENESS DAY – THURSDAY 24TH JULY 2025
Every year on the 24th of July, or 24/7, Samaritans remind us that help is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week — whenever life feels overwhelming.
Across the UK and Ireland, local Samaritans branches will be hosting events to raise awareness and remind everyone that they’re here to listen, day or night, no matter what you’re going through.
If you or someone you know needs support, you can call Samaritans any time on 116 123 — free and confidential. 💚Other ways to get in touch are also available.
Find out more: https://www.samaritans.org/how-we-can-help/contact-samaritan/

24/07/2025

A lovely review was recently left for Kevan and the entire team at Gibson’s Funeral Services, Bishop Auckland.

A heartfelt thank you to the team for showing such respect and compassion, helping to make a difficult time a little gentler for the family involved. 💜

16/07/2025

THANK YOU DAY – WEDNESDAY 16TH JULY 2025
🌟 Today is Thank You Day 🌟
We want to take a moment to say a heartfelt thank you to our incredible funeral directors, arrangers, and operatives.
Your compassion, dedication, and support mean the world to the families you care for — especially during their most difficult times. 💜
We’re proud of the work you do, every day, around the clock. Today, we celebrate you. 👏

13/07/2025

NATIONAL SIMPLICITY DAY – SATURDAY 12TH JULY 2025
Today is a reminder that sometimes, less truly is more.
On National Simplicity Day, we reflect on the value of a simpler approach to life — and, for some families, that includes how they say goodbye to a loved one.
A direct cremation offers a respectful and dignified option without the formality of a traditional service, allowing families to say goodbye in a way that feels right for them.
If you're considering a simpler farewell or just want to understand the options available, our team is here and happy to help.

03/07/2025

NATIONAL BEREAVED PARENTS DAY – THURSDAY 3RD JULY 2025
Today, 3rd July, is National Bereaved Parents Day, this day is dedicated to raising awareness for all parents who have experienced the heartbreaking loss of a baby or child, no matter their age or the circumstances.
This year’s theme is "Together We Are Stronger" — a reminder of the power of community, support, and compassion. 💜
Please join us in helping to spread the message, keep the conversation going, raise awareness, and show the bereaved parent community that they are not alone.
At 7pm this evening, we invite you to light a candle in memory of all the children who have lost their lives too soon. 🕯️

22/06/2025

WORLD MUSIC DAY – SATURDAY 21ST JUNE 2025
It’s world Music Day!
Music has a powerful way of connecting us to memories, emotions, and the people we love. Sometimes, a song says exactly what we feel, especially when we’re missing someone.
Today, we reflect on how music helps us navigate grief and keep the memory of our loved ones alive.
💭 Is there a song that reminds you of a loved one who’s no longer here?
We’d love to hear the music that keeps their memory alive. 💜

13/05/2025

MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS WEEK – MONDAY 12TH – SUNDAY 18TH MAY
💚 Mental Health Awareness Week 💚
This week let’s come together to highlight the importance of good mental health.
The theme for this year is Community, and it’s a reminder that we’re stronger when we support each other.
Mental health is connected to every aspect of our lives — everything we do, every place we go, and every person we meet. Let’s continue supporting one another and creating a community where we all thrive.

08/05/2025

DYING MATTERS AWARENESS WEEK – MONDAY 5TH – SUNDAY 11TH MAY
This Dying Matters Awareness Week, we’re encouraging open, honest conversations about death, dying, and grief — in every culture, every community, and in whatever way feels right.
We see every day how unique each farewell is — shaped by traditions, beliefs, and personal stories. That’s why we’re proud to support a culture in which talking about death is part of life.
Because the Culture of Dying Matters.

08/05/2025

VE DAY – THURSDAY 8TH MAY
Today marks the 80th Anniversary of VE Day – Victory in Europe.
On May 8, 1945, the war in Europe came to an end. Today, we honour the courage, sacrifice, and resilience of all those who fought, served, and gave so much in the pursuit of peace.
We continue to remember their bravery and honour their legacy.

29/04/2025

Introducing our Direct Cremation Plan - simple and dignified

Take advantage of this limited-time offer until 11th May 2025 to arrange your funeral plan. Choose to pay in full or spread the cost with flexible instalment options* to suit your budget.
Ready to get started? For more details and to purchase your plan, quote 200OFF when you visit us, call us or head to http://www.ghdovener.co.uk//choice *T&Cs apply.

This is a financial promotion from Choice Funeral Plans. G H Dovener & Son Funeral Services is a trading name of Funeral Partners Limited (Funeral Partners) which distributes Choice Funeral Plans, which are provided by Alternative Planning Company Limited (APCL). Funeral Partners is an appointed representative of APCL. APCL is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority with firm reference number 965282. The normal price of an Unattended Cremation Plan is £1,795. If you were to purchase an unattended cremation today, the equivalent price would be £1,995. For more information on equivalent prices, please visit choiceplan.co.uk/about-choice/

24/04/2025

Save £200 on all Choice Funeral Plans this Spring

With a Choice Funeral Plan, you can ensure your personal wishes are documented for the future, and you can pay for Funeral Director Services at today’s prices—which could go up or down in the future.

And here’s the best part: until 11th May 2025, you can save £200 on any of our Choice Funeral Plans! Just quote 200OFF to take advantage of this offer. Visit us, call us, or head to http://www.ghdovener.co.uk//choice

This is a financial promotion from Choice Funeral Plans. G H Dovener & Son Funeral Services is a trading name of Funeral Partners Limited (Funeral Partners) which distributes Choice Funeral Plans, which are provided by Alternative Planning Company Limited (APCL). Funeral Partners is an appointed representative of APCL. APCL is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority with firm reference number 965282. The normal price of an Unattended Cremation Plan is £1,795. If you were to purchase an unattended cremation today, the equivalent price would be £1,995. For more information on equivalent prices, please visit choiceplan.co.uk/about-choice/

19/04/2025

EASTER SUNDAY – SUNDAY 20TH APRIL
Easter is a time to reflect on renewal, hope, love and loss. We would like to wish a peaceful Easter to all in our community and comfort to those experiencing their grief and remembrance journey.
During the Easter period, our teams are still fully contactable and available to help you 24 hours a day. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you need assistance.