FUNERALS in Trafford will now be limited to just 10 mourners.

Council bosses say they made the decision “with deep regret" following the Government’s advice on social distancing during the COVID-19 outbreak.

As a result, attendance at chapel services at Altrincham Crematorium Chapel will be restricted to close family only with a maximum of 10 mourners.

Council officials say their new measures regarding funerals will protect the health and wellbeing of bereaved families as well as staff.

Families will be encouraged to wait in their cars or outside the chapel ahead of services, as the waiting room is closed to reduce the risk of infection.

Extra cleaning processes are in place at the chapel and crematorium. Service books have also been removed as a precaution and hand shaking is also being discouraged with ministers, celebrants and funeral directors.

If you or a member of your family has symptoms of the virus, you are advised to follow government advice and self-isolate at home as needed.

Funeral directors are being advised to have conversations with families regarding mourners, the type of funeral service being requested and the age profile of those expected to attend so they can advise on social distancing guidelines and any restrictions on their services.

Cllr Stephen Adshead, the council’s environment executive member, said: “This is a difficult but necessary decision in order to protect our residents and staff.

"We are of course sympathetic to the fact that this affects people at what is already an emotional and difficult time and we are doing everything we can to support bereaved families."