DEATH is a costly and bureaucratic business these days which most people do not appreciate until they have to deal with the departure of a loved one. The prudent would be advised to set aside a little something for the day nobody likes to contemplate.

This week, South Lakeland District Council bumped up its cemetery charges in a bid to keep pace with rising costs.

Internment will now set you back £165 more if you choose to get buried on a Saturday.

It costs £250 to reserve your plot and ensure you're the only one in it for at least 100 years.

For the right to put up a headstone not more than 1m high you'll need £65.

Adults wishing to be buried at three times the normal depth to allow their family to be buried on top of them are charged £350.

Classy grave linings like artificial grass matting will set you back £20.

Children under one-month are buried free of charge.

January 10, 2003 10:00