Legacy Funeral Directors: 163 families contacted about return of ashes

ONGOING INVESTIGATION: Legacy Independent Funeral Directors

By Rick Lyon, Co-Editor

Humberside Police have contacted 163 families about the return of ashes recovered from Legacy Independent Funeral Directors.

The force continues to investigate “concern for care of the deceased” at the company’s premises on Hessle Road and Anlaby Road in Hull, and Beckside in Beverley.

It was previously revealed a total of 35 bodies were moved by the police from the company’s premises on Hessle Road to Hull mortuary. They were all formally identified, and the families notified.

Now, the force, supported by Hull City Council and East Riding Council, has contacted 163 families about the return of ashes recovered from the Hessle Road premises.

Back in April the police said it would not be possible to conclusively identify ashes recovered because of the cremation process.

‘INCREDIBLY DIFFICULT TIME’: Assistant Chief Constable Thom McLoughlin speaking at an earlier press conference

In the latest update, Assistant Chief Constable Thom McLoughlin said the families have all been contacted by telephone and in-person meetings were continuing.

He said: “Some families may want to receive the ashes, and others may not. There is no right or wrong answer and the impact and effect will differ for each individual family, but it should not be underestimated and we will do all we can to support those throughout what is an incredibly difficult time.

“I want to thank the families and everyone in our communities for their understanding as we continue this complex investigation, and we will endeavour to provide answers and updates as and when we are able to.”

A 46-year-old man and a 23-year-old woman arrested on suspicion of prevention of a lawful and decent burial, fraud by misrepresentation and fraud by abuse of position remain on police bail as investigations continue.