PLANS to modernise St Helens Crematorium have been put on hold due to the ongoing coronavirus crisis.

A report was due to be presented to St Helens Council’s Labour cabinet at its meeting next week but has been put back as it was felt the authority would not currently be able to enact any of the recommendations in the report.

Despite the setback, council chiefs have insisted the authority is “committed” to delivering a modernisation programme at the crematorium.

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A St Helens Council spokesman said: “It was hoped that this item would be presented to cabinet this month.

“However, due to the ongoing situation surrounding COVID-19 – and the inability to enact the recommendations of any report – it was felt that considering the report was not necessary at this time.

“The council wants to reassert that it is committed to delivering a modernisation programme at St Helens Crematorium and will look to revisit the details and the implementation at a time when it is more appropriate.”

Funeral services in St Helens and across the country have had to rapidly adapt during the coronavirus crisis.

Under national COVID-19 guidelines, funerals remain restricted to 10 mourners, meaning some family and friends have been unable to witness ceremonies and pay their respects.

Others have had to stay at home because they are in a vulnerable group, such as those with health conditions, or because they are self-isolating with coronavirus symptoms.

In response to this, St Helens Council has now launched a webcasting service for cremation ceremonies.

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Anyone wishing to use this new service simply needs an internet connection and a device that can display video.

An email invite will be sent to guests to view the webcast, which will be conducted via Microsoft Teams, which can be downloaded for free version.

Anyone who has suffered loss and needs support, there is information online at sthelens.gov.uk/births-deaths-and-marriages

Alternatively call the St Helens Bereavement Services Team on 01744 677406 / 677101.