
Direct Cremations in Wotton-under-Edge
L. W. Clutterbuck Ltd
A Simple, Dignified Farewell for the Dearly Departed in Dursley, Thornbury & Their Surrounds
Saying goodbye to a loved one is deeply personal, and for some, simplicity is key. Direct cremations offer a dignified and respectful way to lay someone to rest without the formalities of a traditional funeral service. At L. W. Clutterbuck Ltd, we understand that every farewell is unique, and that as your funeral director of choice, we need to facilitate the way you wish to pay your last respects. This is why we offer compassionate and professional support to families in Dursley, Wotton-under-Edge, and Thornbury who choose this option, just as we do to those opting for woodland burials or looking to arrange their own pre-paid funerals.
What Are Direct Cremations?
A direct cremation is an unattended cremation that takes place without a funeral service, allowing families to say goodbye in their own way and in their own time. It’s a simple, low-cost option that still ensures a respectful and professional process. Many families who choose an unattended cremation prefer to hold a separate memorial, celebration of life, or private gathering to honour their loved one in a more personal setting.

Why Are Direct Cremations Becoming More Popular?
Over recent years, more people have been approaching their funeral director for direct cremations due to:
Simplicity
Being such a simple cremation without a formal service means families can remember their loved one in their own way.
Affordability
Without the additional costs of a ceremony, direct cremations help keep funeral costs in check.
Flexibility
Families can arrange their own private memorial at a time and place that suits them.
Personal Preference
Some people simply do not wish to have a traditional funeral service.
At L.W. Clutterbuck Ltd, we ensure that direct cremations are carried out with the utmost care and respect, offering reassurance to families around Dursley, Thornbury and Wotton-under-Edge that their loved one is treated with dignity at every step.
What Do Direct Cremations Include?
Our direct cremation service includes everything needed for a simple, respectful farewell:
- Collection of the Deceased – We collect your loved one from their place of passing and bring them into our care.
- Dignified Transportation – They will be transported to the crematorium with the highest level of care and professionalism.
- Chapel of Rest Care – Your loved one will be cared for by a L. W. Clutterbuck Ltd funeral director at our funeral home until the cremation takes place.
- Crematorium & Legal Paperwork Assistance – We handle all necessary paperwork and liaise with the crematorium on your behalf.
- A Simple Coffin – A dignified, simple coffin is included in the service.
- Preparation for Cremation – If required, we remove pacemakers and ensure all cremation regulations are met.
- A Respectful Cremation – The cremation takes place in accordance with all legal and ethical standards.
- Music of Choice Played – If requested, we can arrange for a piece of music to be played in tribute to your loved one.
- Ashes Returned or Scattered – We can return the ashes to you in an urn of your choice or scatter them at the crematorium’s designated area.

Additional Options Available
We understand that despite these being very simple cremations by nature, some families around Dursley, Thornbury and Wotton-under-Edge may still wish to make additional personal arrangements. These might include:
- Spending Time at the Chapel of Rest – Available at an additional cost for those who wish to say a final goodbye.
- Choice of Urn or Keepsake – Ashes can be placed in a special urn, keepsake, or even crafted into memorial jewellery or glassware.
- Flexible Arrangements – We are happy to discuss ways to personalise the process in line with your wishes.
What Direct Cremations Do Not Include
It’s important to note that direct cremations do not include:
- Attendance of Mourners – These are unattended cremations, without a service at the crematorium.
- Choice of Crematorium or Date – The cremation will take place at a crematorium chosen by us at a time determined by availability.
- Procession or Hearse – As a simple cremation, there is no formal funeral procession.
- Out-of-Hours Collection – We arrange collection of the deceased within normal working hours (8 am – 6 pm).

Understanding Crematorium Regulations & Doctor’s Cremation Forms
Before a cremation can take place, specific legal requirements must be met. One of these is obtaining Doctor’s Cremation Forms. These forms are necessary to confirm that there is no reason a cremation should not proceed and must be completed by two separate doctors. As a funeral director here to help you every step of the way, we can help you arrange for these forms to be completed, ensuring all legal obligations are fulfilled.
If the death has been referred to the coroner, a post-mortem may be required, in which case the coroner will issue the necessary documents instead.
How L.W. Clutterbuck Ltd Can Help
Choosing a direct cremation does not mean you are left without support. L. W. Clutterbuck Ltd is a long-serving funeral director here to provide guidance, reassurance, and practical help throughout the entire process. From handling paperwork to ensuring your loved one is cared for with dignity, we are by your side every step of the way.
Speak to Us About Direct Cremations
If you would like to learn more about direct cremations in Dursley, Wotton-under-Edge, or Thornbury, we are here to help. Whether you’re planning ahead for yourself or arranging a cremation for a loved one, we are happy to provide support and answer any questions you may have. Call us today on 01453 542754 (Cam, Dursley) or 01454 660088 (Thornbury), or visit us in person for a friendly, no-obligation chat. We’re here to help you through this process with care and compassion.