Cath and Tosh from Cradle to Grave Willow Coffins were the proud recipients of ‘Coffin Supplier of The Year’ at The Good Funeral Awards 2023. This is the third time they have won the award, held this year at The National Conference Centre in Solihull, hosted by EastEnders star Shaun Williamson.
The wooden plaque, sponsored by Horizon Cremation awarded to Cradle to Grave as Coffin Supplier of the year 2023
The coffin supplier of the year at the Good Funeral Awards is a recognition of the best and most compassionate coffin provider in the industry. This year's winner ‘Cradle to Grave’ is a testament to the dedication, hard work and attention to detail required to provide grieving families with a sense of peace and comfort in a time of loss.
Choosing a coffin is an important decision, and the coffin supplier of the year understands this. They take the time to listen to the families they serve, offering a range of options to ensure they find the perfect match for their loved one. They are also mindful of environmental concerns, offering eco-friendly options for those who wish to minimize their impact.
Their commitment to quality extends beyond the product itself. The winner of this prestigious award is also recognized for the exceptional customer service they provide. They treat every family they serve with respect and kindness, understanding the importance of their role in helping families through a difficult time.
Cradle to Grave, in winning this award sets the standard for excellence in the funeral industry. Their dedication to providing exceptional products and customer service is a true testament to their commitment to serving those in need.
The certificate of excellence as coffin supplier of the year 2023, presented to Cath and Tosh Abbot of Cradle to Grave
The essence of a green funeral is simplicity. It rejects the idea of the traditional style funeral in favour of something with a more natural feel.
The Association of Green Funeral Directors (AGFD) is a non-profit making organisation which strives to bring natural eco-friendly funerals into the mainstream.
As the association states “The essence of a green funeral is simplicity. It rejects the idea of the traditional style funeral in favour of something with a more natural feel. Burials are often in an unspoilt landscape rather than a conventional cemetery and it rejects the more artificial elements associated with funerals such as lacquered coffins with brass handles, strict ceremonies and embalming.
It's the idea of caring for the deceased with a minimal impact on the environment. For people observing certain religious traditions, a green burial may also be a way to meet the requirements of the religious law in a modern world. However not all of these ideas have to be used and certain elements alone can work within a traditional funeral service too - for example choosing a willow coffin. The choice is yours”.
Cath and Tosh Abbot with one of their beautiful hand woven willow coffins.
“We are very proud and honoured to have won this award….for the third time! It makes all the long hours and hard work all worthwhile”.
We are skilled basket makers and have been in the business of basket weaving and willow coffin weaving for over 20 years. We weave our willow caskets using traditional age-old weaving skills, using age old methods passed down through generations of basket weavers. Using traditional weaves and traditional handcrafted tools made by local blacksmiths, you can be sure of getting a unique bespoke handcrafted willow product. We are passionate about using locally grown produce and grow our own willow at Withysmythe Meadow in Dorset.
The willow plantation at Withysmythe Meadow
Cradle to Grave are here to support you and your family with lovingly-made willow coffins which are both shaped by history and inspired by eco-friendly design. If you would like us to discuss your needs with you in detail, please call or email us at your convenience.
Cath and Tosh Abbott work from their Withysmythe Meadow workshop in Dorset. You can contact them by phone or email. They look forward to hearing from you.
