LUDLOW funeral director, Victoria Allen Funeral Services, has been named best newcomer at this year’s Funeral Planner of the Year Awards, run by funeral plan provider Golden Charter.

Hosted by radio DJ Ken Bruce, the awards took place at the National Museum of Scotland in Edinburgh and featured a performance by the world-famous Red Hot Chilli Pipers.

In addition to the Funeral Planner of the Year accolade, the Woodland Trust has dedicated trees on behalf of Victoria Allen Funeral Services, which are to be planted locally at Uffmoor Wood in the West Midlands, in recognition of the company’s achievement.

“More and more people are pre-arranging their funerals and it’s so important that we can recommend a planning company with full confidence, knowing the client’s money is safe and that everyone, including ourselves, will receive a good service,” said Ms Allen.

“We’re delighted to have won this award and look forward to working with Golden Charter for many years to come.”

Golden Charter Chief Executive Officer Suzanne Grahame believes that the work of funeral directors often goes unappreciated.

“The respected and caring work of independent funeral directors within their local communities often goes unrecognised,” she said.

“This award recognises excellent service.”