AN INDEPENDENT funeral directors is celebrating after two members of staff achieved a national qualification.

AJ Wakely & Sons, which is based in Bridport and Lyme Regis, believes the two funeral directors gaining the qualification is an "important investment".

Christopher Legg and Darren Holt have passed the British Institute of Funeral Directors (BIFD) diploma in funeral directing.

Following an 18-month course, the qualification is well respected within the funeral services industry and the firm believes it adds an extra advantage to the services the company provides.

The NAFD diploma in funeral directing qualification is benchmarked to Level 3 national standards of learning and assessment, which aligns directly to the level of responsibilities a funeral director performs.

As a result of achieving this qualification, the firm believes both Mr Legg and Mr Holt are equipped with the necessary skills, knowledge and competences to confidently carry out a comprehensive funeral arrangement to exceed the expectations of the company's clients.

The directors at AJ Wakely & Sons wanted the duo to study, learn and develop the best practice.

Simon Wakely, director of AJ Wakely & Sons, said: “We are very proud of our company's history of providing a dignified and caring service to the local area.

“Our staff remain committed to the traditions of providing the very best funeral services as well as meeting the requirements of today’s families.

"Ensuring that our funeral directors have passed professional qualifications recognised by the BIFD is an important investment for A J Wakely & Sons.”

Mr Legg, who is based at the Bridport office, said: “It has been a fantastic opportunity to undertake such a well-respected qualification within the funeral industry.

"The BIFD diploma in funeral directing has equipped me with the skills and knowledge required to offer the very best service to the bereaved.”

AJ Wakely & Sons is a family-run business, that has been in operation since 1897. The firm has been passed down through four generations.

The company's head office is on East Street, Bridport - as well as branches in Beaminster, Lyme Regis, Sherborne, Chard, Crewkerne, Ilminster, Wincanton and Yeovil.

For more information visit ajwakely.com