A FUNERAL directors which has taken over a new premises in Deeside has paid tribute to its former owner.

Busby and Kane Indepedent Funeral Directors in Buckley opened its new Shotton branch on Saturday - which was once home to O W Ellis Funeral Directors.

Mark Busby, co-owner of Busby and Kane, began his career working for the owner of O W Ellis - the late Oscar 'Ockie' Ellis.

And to pay tribute to Ockie - Mark and Tracy Kane, fellow owner, offered Ockie’s daughters - Karen Ellis-Cosstick and Zoe Ellis - the chance to open the new office and chapel of rest.

Karen and Zoe donated memorabilia honouring their dad, which is now displayed in the reception area.

Tracy Kane said: "As well as being extremely proud of our growing business, it is also a privilege for them to be working where Mr Oscar ‘Ockie’ Ellis ran one of his funeral directors, before they were taken over by a large national organisation.

"Mark actually began his career working for Ockie when he was 21-years-old, washing the funeral cars, driving and performing general funeral duties."

Mark Busby added: "It's nice to almost have gone full circle, the branch was once home to a brilliant independent retailer, before being taken over by a national organisation. But now to have it back in the hands of indepedent funeral directors is a fitting tribute to Ockie."