Letter: Mourners shouldn't be rushed

REGARDING the complaint about routine funerals, there is no need to have a religious officiant or indeed any officiant at all. The ceremony may be taken by anyone, and take any form, provided it is decent and orderly. There may be readings, music, prayers or silence. There may be a religious element or not. If you want advice, for a religious funeral try your local denomination and for a non-religious funeral try the British Humanist Association (0608 652063). Funerals can never be fun, but they can be free.

Nicolas Walter

Rationalist Press Association

London N1