A MAN from County Durham has been recognised for his work helping those suffering from bereavement.

Durham County Council bereavement services manager, Graham Harrison, was awarded the highest honour of becoming a fellow of the Institute of Cemeteries and Crematorium Management (ICCM) at its annual conference.

Mr Harrison has worked for years to transform the council’s crematoria, he has refurbished chapels, provided a new book of remembrance facilities and upgraded technical equipment.

He said: “I have worked in the bereavement industry for over 30 years, and to be awarded a fellowship from The Institute of Cemeteries and Crematorium Management has come as a huge shock.

“It was much unexpected to be nominated by the institute and my thanks go out to them. I feel that part of my job role is to provide a sensitive and respectful service fitting for the bereaved and it’s rewarding to be recognised for this, I am just doing my job.”

Mr Harrison began working in the bereavement industry in 1987. He now runs the council’s two crematoria, open cemeteries and closed churchyards, and is also the regional branch chair of the ICCM.

The institute said it recognised his professional ability and also his contribution to the profession.