A Ferndown funeral directors’ business continues to grow, boosted by the success of its major refurbishment and introduction of a ceremony room.

AE Jolliffe & Son has recruited Kerry Corwson, a funeral director, and Jedda Hunt, an office administrator. The team has grown steadily since the completion of works three years ago, with the ceremony room proving hugely successful.

Jolliffe & Son is part of the Douch Family Funeral Group, which has seven branches across east Dorset.

Debbie Brown, the manager, said:

“The addition of Kerry and Jedda has enabled us to broaden what we can offer, giving families more choice and ensuring we can provide extra support for our other branches when they need it."

“Both are very experienced and have hit the ground running since joining us; our team is the biggest and strongest it’s ever been. The renovation of the premises and addition of the ceremony room has proved popular with local families – showing the investment is paying off."

“The ceremony room is where people can have a cost-effective funeral and wake in the same place, but it is also available for community groups and others who might need the space.”

Nick Douch, managing director of the family business, said:

“The investment in our Jolliffe branch was part of a rolling programme of improvements across all our branches. It is situated in a prominent location on the main crossroads in Ferndown and the community is making great use of the facilities."

“The success of the ceremony room has meant we have been able to grow and take on two new team members who are helping us continue to build on that growth.”

Douch Family Funeral Directors other branches are in Wimborne, Corfe Mullen, Blandford, Parkstone, Wareham and Swanage.

Photo: Debbie Brown, manager, centre, with Jedda Hunt front right and Kerry Crowson front left