Planning Ahead

At Sun Rising we know how important it is to feel sure that the funeral of a loved one is just what they would have wanted. When those organising a funeral know a person's last wishes, it makes it so much easier to get through those first difficult days, weeks and months. That knowledge is a priceless gift.

However, talking about our wishes with those we love can be extremely hard. Even finding an appropriate moment to raise the subject can be difficult. Our desire to talk about such things can be seen as morbid or negative, when really we are simply looking for peace of mind.

Understanding this, we welcome individuals, couples and families who wish to talk through ideas, needs and concerns. Make an appointment when you're ready.

My Last Wishes

Our step-by-step guide includes every question you need to consider - from whether you'd like to be buried or cremated, to whether you'd like a particular piece of music played at your funeral. You can download it as a pdf by clicking the button here or get in touch and we'll send you a copy on paper.

Buying or Reserving a Plot in Advance

Until May 2021, it was possible to purchase a grave plot in advance at Sun Rising.  This was done through the purchase of a Licence, which entitles the Licence Holder to be buried, or to nominate someone else to be buried, here at the burial ground.  In accordance with our Cemetery Regulations, a Licence lasts for 20 years; if the Licence has not been redeemed (the plot used) by then, the Licence can be renewed for a further ten years on payment of an administrative fee.  If, however, we can't reach the Licence Holder (or someone acting on their behalf) at that time, we must assume they do not wish to use the plot and the Licence will be void.

The Licence Holder will have paid for the plot in full.  All interment fees and the other costs are payable at the time of the burial.

Although it is no longer possible to buy a Licence at Sun Rising, there is still plenty of space and we anticipate burials continuing for some decades to come.  In order to ensure the natural burial ground and nature reserve is fully secure into the future, it is important that an income comes in gently over the years, rather than up front.

It is possible to reserve a plot at Sun Rising in the meadow beside a spouse, parent or child, if you are 60 years of age or older.  Such reservations last for ten years, at which point they can be renewed for an administrative fee.  Please ask for more information.

The Importance of Writing a Will

Research from the Probate Service in the UK shows that 57% of people still die without a valid Will.  It's also estimated that 19% of adults have had a substantial change in circumstances since drawing up their original Will - but have taken no action to update it. Even if you have a valid Will, the chances are that you know someone who could well die without one. Dying without a Will can cause serious problems - and unwanted stress - for surviving relatives.

The property belonging to some who dies intestate (without a valid Will) is inherited according to a strict set of rules commonly known as the intestacy rules. Instead of the property going to the person's chosen beneficiaries, it is left to other relatives in a particular order and according to specific rules of distribution.  For example, a surviving spouse has no automatic right under UK law to inherit all their spouse's property if there is no effective Will.

Just as leaving your last wishes clear with regard to your funeral is a genuine gift to your family and friends, equally valuable is leaving a valid Will.
My Decisions is a website that helps you write an advanced directive or living will, expressing your wishes with regard to healthcare towards the end of life.
Age UK - type 'End of Life Planning' into their search box - is an excellent source of free advice.