FAMILIES can pay their respects to deceased relatives in a tranquil haven created at Durham Crematorium.

As part of a long-term improvement plan for the South Road crematorium, a £140,000 memorial walled garden was opened, yesterday, by Durham Mayor, Councillor George Wharton, and his counterpart from Spennymoor, Councillor John Marr.

The garden, opened in the 40th anniversary year of the crematorium, is designed as a special place for the bereaved to visit, with the opportunity to buy and mount a plaque commemorating their loved one.

The garden is similar in shape to the nearby crematorium chapel, complementing it with the use of a similar-style brick.

It is designed as a court area, providing a comfortable and peaceful space for quiet reflection.

The garden has been created by local landscape architects, Southern Green Partnerships.

Simon Round, of Southern Green, said: "We have sited the gardens so they are close to the chapel, but do not interfere with the magnificent views from it.

"The trees along the cemetery boundary provide a dramatic backdrop to the gardens, which has spectacular views over the lawns to the countryside."

Crematorium registrar and superintendent Alan Jose said he hopes the bereaved will find the new garden "a great source of comfort".