FUNERAL directors DJ Bewley has been named best mid-sized regional funeral planner in the west England area at an award ceremony.

The business, which has branches in Melksham and Devizes, scooped the title at the 2015 Funeral Planner of the Year awards, run by funeral plan provider Golden Charter.

The awards are the biggest gathering of independent funeral directors in the UK, with this year’s event the largest ever held and celebrates the achievements of independent funeral directors, who make up a growing majority of the funeral industry.

Patrik Bewley, director of DJ Bewley, said: “Through these awards the DJ Bewley family celebrate personal excellence and professional commitment in one of the most difficult and challenging areas of serving the public. We are delighted with our award.”

In addition to the award itself, a framed certificate and a cash prize, the Woodland Trust has dedicated trees on behalf of DJ Bewley, which are to be planted locally in recognition of the company’s achievement.

Ronnie Wayte, Golden Charter’s chief executive, said: “In their 22nd year the awards are more competitive than ever before, with funeral plans continuing to grow in popularity. This award is well earned proof that D J Bewley funeral directors has reached a remarkable standard.”