A HOSPICE and two charities have been given donations totalling nearly £6,000 by an Atherton crematorium which was raised as part of its metal recycling scheme.

With the consent of families, metals recovered during cremation are recycled and any money raised at each of the 34 crematoria and cemeteries nationwide operated by Westerleigh Group is used to support worthy causes.

Howe Bridge Crematorium on Lovers Lane has donated £4,695.21 to Wigan and Leigh Hospice, and £500 each to Wigan and Leigh Young Carers and Wigan and Leigh Pensioners Link.

Crematorium site manager, Lindsey Edwardson, said: “These organisations do such incredible work trying to enhance and make a positive difference to the lives of people in our community when they are in most need of support and assistance.

“It’s an honour to be able to provide them with these much-needed and well-deserved donations.”

Wigan and Leigh Hospice provides palliative and end of life care for people with life-limiting illnesses including cancer, neurological and respiratory conditions.

Lindsey added: “Like many similar charities, they rely on their shops as a major source of income, and that has been dramatically affected by the pandemic, so I’m sure our donation will help make up for that shortfall.”

Wigan and Leigh Young Carers provides support for children from as young as five who find themselves caring for or nursing a parent who is very ill.

The charity supports the young carers through their teenage years and until they become independent adults.

Wigan and Leigh Pensioners Link work with the over 50s to support them with many of life’s challenges such as finance, friendships, disabilities, feelings, wellbeing, learning, social activities and more.