A DATE has been set for Flintshire's new crematorium to open.

The Leader reported recently how development on the £4 million structure reached a milestone, with the building’s external envelope being completed and four job roles being advertised.

The company behind the project, Memoria, has confirmed the facility will open on June 25 and lines are already open for bookings.

Oxfordshire-based Memoria won a legal battle with Flintshire funeral directors J E Davies and Son to provide the crematorium, and was given planning permission in 2016.

Following the announcement of the opening date, Edward Davies of J. E. Davies and Son Funeral Directors said: "J. E. Davies and Son Funeral Directors are pleased the residents of Flintshire and the surrounding areas will now have the benefit of a local crematorium.

"Hopefully the availability of this additional facility will reduce waiting times for cremation services, and families using refreshment venues local to Flintshire will be able to rejoin mourners sooner following the cremation or committal.

"I am obviously still disappointed my application for a crematorium was not successful, but Memoria have provided this much needed crematorium facility in Flintshire.

"We at J. E. Davies and Son Funeral Directors have been using Memoria’s crematorium in St Asaph since it opened and the staff there are professional and courteous, and provide us and bereaved families with an excellent service.

"We are sure the same will be provided by the new facility and staff at Northop Crematorium."

In addition to cremation facilities, there will be a garden of remembrance for cremated remains in a landscaped setting, with manicured gardens and country views.

To find out more about the facility, including how to get in touch, visit www.flintshirememorial.co.uk