The local community came to our rescue when our hearse and limo became stuck in heavy snow in Birtley.

Dozens of people came out of their homes to help push the vehicles up the steep road in the midst of the Beast from the East. Funeral Directors Martin Morrell (who was driving the limo) and David Hindmarch (who was the funeral director on the day) shovelled snow and grit, and pushed the vehicles with the others.

Martin said: “We want to say a huge thank you to everyone who came to our rescue. It was wonderful to see the community really push together.

“We wouldn’t have made it to the funeral if it wasn’t for our incredible community; the family were truly grateful that we were able to continue with the day and take them to the ceremony, thank you”.