Fylde coast film maker thanked with vouchers after he filmed funerals for free in lockdown

During the height of the coronavirus, Brian Hurst streamed the funeral services for many families and friends in the Blackpool, Fylde and Wyre areas who wanted to pay their respects but were unable to due to strict rules on attendance.

Over that time Brian, 66, who runs Brian David Films, filmed and streamed free of charge around 200 funerals for bereaved families during the height of the pandemic

Although the film maker, of Stratford Road, St Annes, was certainly not after any reward, a group of funeral directors and others decided to club together and give him a 'substantial' amount of Amazon vouchers.

He was presented with them during a special ceremony at Carelton Crematorium.

One of the main organisers was Richard Spedding, a Humanist funeral celebrant who, although not a member of the clergy, has delivered many funeral ceremonies.

He said:"Brian has made a tremendous effort which has assisted many families during a very difficult time for them.

"To mark our gratitude to Brian, I arranged a collection from local funeral directors and fellow celebrants and we were delighted to present him with the vouchers."

And this was not the only recognition for Brian's efforts.

In a separate and un-related event, he was also presented with a ‘Covid-19 Hero’ accolade by the Mayor of Fylde, Coun Angela Jacques.

Brian said: "I didn’t expect or do the filming for an award but this is a very nice gesture for which I am grateful. The kind words I have had from bereaved families and friends have meant a great deal.”