THE process of mourning a loved one’s death at a town's crematorium has been labelled as "grubby and degrading" following works at the venue.

The book of remembrance at Barrow's cemetery was until recently housed in a glass case in a special room, where relatives could mourn their loved ones.

But it was moved during work at the cemetery and is now only viewable from outside, through a glass window.

The issue was raised by Trevor Partridge, of Gosforth, who recently paid a visit to the book.

His views have been backed up by Evening Mail readers, who have aired similar concerns.

Mr Partridge said: "Prior to the work carried out last year to the building the facilities provided were of a good standard, not brilliant but good.

"On visiting the premises in late November to view the Book of Remembrance, I was appalled to discover that the previous arrangements have been replaced by nothing more than a slightly grubby window in the side of the building behind which, now exposed to sunlight, sits the Book of Remembrance.

"One now has to view the book completely exposed to the elements, with no protection whatsoever from the prevailing weather, be it wind, rain, hail, sleet or snow.

"In addition, one has to walk past staff working at their desks, or in my case, eating at their desks, and who have a view of anyone standing peering into the window to view the book."

Mr Partridge adds there is no longer a place to leave flowers and labels Barrow's crematorium the "worst he has ever visited." He said: "If you had set out to insult people, and cause the viewing process to become degraded and degrading then you could not have done a better job."

Evening Mail readers agreed. Dave Gomersall said on Facebook: "There is nowhere private to grieve or reflect now. We were stood outside in the pouring rain and wind a few weeks ago to look at the Book of Remembrance. Cold and impersonal."

Christine Johnson added: "Yes, I agree. No better than window-shopping! Why can people not still use the lobby?"

Barrow Council's cemeteries and crematorium manager, Chris Pollard, said: "Previously the book could only be viewed during office opening hours. It was moved to make it more accessible to the public and as a result they can view it for longer periods of the day."

The remembrance book was previously accessible between 9am and 4.30pm. The cemetery is open until 8.30pm in summer and 6.30pm during winter months.