The cost of dying in Preston is set to increase from April.

Preston City Council has proposed an above-inflation rise on the cost of burial and cremation.

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A five per cent increase in the costs for cemetery and cremation services would raise an additional £58,000 for the city council.

It follows an 11.5 per cent increase last year which netted an additional £40,000.

A report to the city council says the additional money would be set aside to fund new burial grounds and replacement equipment.

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The city council says the cutbacks from central government mean it is reviewing fees and charges to services.

Cabinet member for finance and resources councillor Martyn Rawlinson said: “The reduced budget settlement means we must review the fees and charges of all our services, including burial costs, on an annual basis.

“We remain committed to providing high standards of service despite the challenge of diminishing resources. However, our fees and charges continue to be competitive across Lancashire.”

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What will the new fees be?

For a burial in a private grave in a standard coffin for anyone aged over 16 to a depth of 6ft the new fee would be £521, up from £496.

The cost of a cremation will rise from £683 to £717.

What do you think about the rise in burial fees? Let us know in the comments below