Ian Hanks

Not only am I a trained civil celebrant, I have also spent the last 21 years as a fully qualified Funeral Director and Area Manager in Wiltshire and Gloucestershire, looking after 19 branches for one of the most prestigious funeral service providers in the UK, namely Dignity Funerals Ltd.

Having achieved the Diploma in Funeral Directing plus the Higher Diploma in Funeral Service Management, I know how to look after and care for families with humility and compassion, and to assist the bereaved and guide those who are grieving through the whole funeral process.

With my 21 years’ service as a Funeral Director and Area Manager, I understand and appreciate what a deep and painful time it can be for families who have lost a loved one — but I also realise that whilst suffering a loss, the family wants to make sure their loved one is well remembered, giving them the opportunity to celebrate a life which has been well lived and needs to be shared with stories and experiences they have all been through together. This is where my experience comes in: to ‘paint a picture’ so that everyone who attends the funeral goes away with some relived or new memory of the deceased, having listened to favourite music and shared topical readings or poems to celebrate the life.

Each service is an individual experience not only for the family but also for me — putting together a bespoke service with readings and music. For myself it is a privilege to be part of their lives for a very short period of time and to have helped and guided them through some of the darkest days of their life.

I also officiate at weddings, helping a couple celebrate the union between two people — again with the help of readings and music which is special to them — to seal their commitment to each other for a long and happy life together.

Please feel free to ring me should you wish to discuss either. I will be pleased to discuss and advise you for the bespoke service everyone deserves.