A FAMILY funeral business is celebrating after winning a prestigious national award - for the third time!

Fowles Funeral Services in Winsford has been named Funeral Planner of the Year for the north west and north Wales - having already won the award twice in the past five years.

Dave Fowles, whose family founded the business more than 250 years ago, said: "We are very honoured to be recognised.

"This is the third time we have won this award and shows the consistent level of our service."

Northwich Guardian:

Dan Hare, Golden Charter national business manager, Jason Whelen, Dave Fowles, Craig Murray from Fowles Funeral Services and Giles Brandreth, who hosted the awards ceremony

Dave, the sixth generation funeral director, runs the business with parents Geoff and Carole and sister Lesley. Craig Murray and Jason Whelan are also members of the team.The firm is the town's only independent funeral service.

"What makes us special is that because we are a family we know what families need," said Dave. "We always treat people like our family."

The team were also shortlisted in the top eight family run businesses in the UK.

Northwich Guardian:

Jason Whelen, Dave Fowles, Geoff Fowles, Carole Fowles and Craig Manning from Fowles Funeral Services

"Being in the top eight is a massive achievement and makes us very proud" said Dave.

The awards are run by Golden Charter, one of the UK’s leading funeral plan providers and is an annual event that celebrates the achievements of independent funeral directors.

The firm has been inundated with kind wishes on social media from families they have served over the years.

Clair Davies said: "Brilliant service for every loved one that's been lost, always amazing. Well done its well deserved."

Amanda Jane Orme added: "Well deserved guys, you're all amazing, I personally can’t thank you enough for what you did for us." Karen Baker said: "Well deserved, kind and compassionate when you need it most."

Emily Warren added: "So well deserved, you were absolutely brilliant with us down to the smallest detail. Can't thank you enough. Congratulations on your award."

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Catherine Reid said: "They are amazing, the best funeral directors in Winsford. They did everything we wanted for my dad nearly five years ago."

Carol Burrows said: "Well deserved to a wonderful bunch of people."

Adele Garner added: "Well done, you deserve it. You all work so hard and are always kind and compassionate. You do a great job."