A HOSKINS and Son is now Stourport's only independent family owned and run funeral directors, with premises at both York Street and Queens Road.

The owner and "head of the family" is Stephen Peregrine, who has been a funeral director for 30 years.

Mr Peregrine became the owner of Hoskins and Son in 1996 and the business was established in Stourport in 2001.

The York Street premises is open from Monday to Friday and is run by funeral arranger and administrator, Julie Tolley.

She has lived and worked in the Kidderminster and Stourport area all her life, and many people will remember her from the local carpet factory personnel office, where she worked for many years.

Mrs Tolley is able to offer sympathetic and practical support to families in the days leading up to the funeral, and in many cases, afterwards as well.

The team of bearers and drivers are local ladies and gentleman, who know the area and many of the people.

The company is also able to offer the services of a local florist, who will visit families in their own homes to discuss their floral tributes.

As a caring, family company, Hoskins understands the needs and concerns of the bereaved.

Funeral arrangements can be made at any time, including evenings and weekends, at either of the premises or in the familiar surroundings of your own home.

Relatives wishing to spend time with their loved ones are able to visit the tranquil Chapels of Rest at any time, including evenings and weekends.

Telephones are answered 24 hours a day, and as a well-established family firm, Hoskins can offer sound advice and compassionate support to families throughout Worcestershire during and after one of the most traumatic events of their lives.

For further peace of mind, A Hoskins and Son is a member of the National Association of Funeral Directors.

Mr Peregrine and Mrs Tolley are available 24 hours a day, every day. They can be contacted on 01299 879090.