In 1918 Tom Howcroft returned to England after the First World War. He had served a seven year apprenticeship as a cabinet maker before the war so on his return he decided to strike out on his own and start his own company.
Tom had three sons, two of which Jack and Geoffrey joined him in the business.
The company grew and began to diversify into house building and undertaking as well as joinery. After his death the two brothers took over the running of the business. Unfortunately in 1958 the building caught fire and was burned to the ground. A new building was erected with the addition of a consecrated Chapel of Rest making it the most up to date Funeral Service in the district. The brothers decided to phase out their joinery work and concentrate on the Funeral side of the business. Jack qualified as a Funeral Director and Embalmer and the business was the 20th member of the National Association of Funeral Directors.
In time Roger (Jack's eldest son) was invited to join the family business and passed his exams making him a qualified Funeral Director and Embalmer, as did his daughter Vicki Howcroft who now manages the business. Vicki is supported by her loyal staff Philip Dicken, Nigel Lambert and Steve Thornthwaite who are also qualified Funeral Directors. The newest member of staff is Roger's first grandchild Natalie Dunn (the fifth Howcroft generation) who has recently passed her Diploma in Funeral Arranging and Administration.
Howcrofts' Funeral Services are celebrating their 100 years of caring and serving the community and are happy to remain a local independent business.
- The minister or other person to conduct the funeral service
- Any special requests such as a bagpipes or organist to play at the funeral service
- Press Notices
- Order of Service Sheets & Attendance Cards
- Floral tributes
- Catering for after the funeral service
