Visit to Taunton Deane Crematorium

A select group from the youngest to the oldest members of our club experienced a fascinating visit to the Taunton Crematorium with operation director Mark Delahay as our guide. The main building, which won several design awards, is built of locally quarried stone and dates from 1963.

Both ‘front of house’ and ‘behind the scenes’ operations were explained in detail and the tour took longer than anticipated due to the large number of detailed questions. What was clear was the high level of care and respect shown throughout the process. It was also interesting to note that there was no use of the words ‘dead’ or ‘death’. 

A few facts - On average, 10 cremations take place each week day. Saturday services are also offered. 850 degrees is the optimum temperature for cremation which takes between 90 and 120 minutes. Replacement metal joints (hips and knees etc) are recovered and, after refurbishment, can be reused.

Perhaps the visit to the StoneGallows should have preceded the crematorium. It was also slightly worrying that while 19 members entered the Crem, only 13 remained in our party to eat. OK so a well done steak or even a toasted sandwich may not have seemed so appetising!

Once people had recovered from the shock of the prices (“yes sir you do get change from £10 when ordering a main meal and a large glass of red wine”) those with an appetite enjoyed a variety of dishes. The offer of 2 meals for £9.99 were good if you found a friend!!

The ball draw was won by Peter Kirby (not present) so a roll over.

No meeting next week (Bank Holiday).

Weds 4th Sept. Breakfast at Mr Miles.

Mon 9th Sept. Speaker from ‘Somerset Counselling Centre’ , 7 for 7 30 at SCCC

Duty Rotarian: Stephen Jenkins Speaker’s Friend: Stephen Smith