Families affected by the investigation of the Legacy Independent Funeral Directors are set to have their voices heard as the designs for permanent memorials are unveiled. Plans are underway to establish memorial gardens at Hull's Northern Cemetery and Lelley Fields Crematorium, located near Preston. These gardens will provide peaceful areas where the ashes of those impacted by the investigation can find their final resting place.
An architect has been collaborating with staff at both locations, aiming to create designs consistent with the character and aesthetic of each facility. The Northern Cemetery's memorial garden will be designated as the Forget-Me-Not Garden, whereas the one at Lelley Fields is set to be named Butterfly Grove.
Tracy Meyerhoff, Hull City Council's Director of Adult Social Care and the leader of the efforts to support affected families, emphasized the importance of consultation. “We know we are now a year on from this incident, and we’re continuing to support people who are still dealing with this distressing situation,” she commented. “It’s really important they are involved in shaping these permanent memorials, so we’ve been hearing from them about the type of things they’d like to have.”
This month marks the anniversary of the investigation's initiation, which uncovered serious irregularities at the funeral home business, including allegations of fraud. Humberside Police confirmed they had identified 163 families linked to the recovery of ashes and 35 bodies, initially found at the Hessle Road premises.
Angela Dearing, East Riding of Yorkshire Council's recovery lead for the incident and Director of Housing, Transportation, and Public Protection, remarked on the community engagement aspect of the memorial development. “Families and loved ones have been provided the first opportunity to influence the final designs, but there will also be chances for the wider public to have their say over the coming weeks,” she stated.
To facilitate this, there will be several community events held next month showcasing the proposed designs and allowing for public feedback. The events will occur throughout April, with details to be disseminated through the social media channels of both councils. There will also be online feedback forms available for those who cannot attend the events.
This commemorative effort will culminate with a memorial service on March 6, serving as a poignant reminder of the families affected. The invitation-only service will take place at Hull Minster and will be led by the Bishop of Hull, Rt Rev Dr Eleanor Sanderson, along with the Rev Canon Dr Dominic Black, vicar of Hull Minster.
Meanwhile, support continues to be offered to those impacted by the incident through the independent charity Victim Support, which has been operational since April of last year. They have provided guidance throughout the process of returning ashes and have advocated for individuals with banks on suspected funeral plan fraud. The charity's dedicated helpline remains available at 0808 281 1136, and more information can be found on their website.
The Legacy Independent Funeral Directors investigation remains under scrutiny, with law enforcement continuing to process evidence tied to the case. A 46-year-old man was arrested on charges including prevention of lawful and decent burial, as well as fraud, and remains on conditional bail. Another suspect, a 54-year-old woman, who was apprehended on allegations of money laundering, also remains on bail.
According to police reports, over 13,000 exhibits have been compiled as part of the investigation, submitted to the Crown Prosecution Service for detailed examination. These developments serve as reminders of the importance of accountability and the enduring need for community support during such grievous times.
The memorial gardens represent more than just places of remembrance; they embody the resilience of families and the commitment of officials to honor their loved ones appropriately. Their establishment aims to provide solace and recognition to those who lost so much, offering spaces where memories can be cherished and shared.