Bridgnorth gravedigger seeks gold in national awards

“I learnt more in the mortuary than I did through all of my education.

“I learnt about the real world, how people work, how grief is processed, what happens after death – and I absolutely loved it.”

Gravedigger Louis Fensome has worked in the funeral sector since the age of 17, and has now been shortlisted for a major industry award.

The 27-year-old set up his own business six years ago, and is one of four finalists in the Gravedigger of the Year category at the Good Funeral Awards, praised for his “precision and attention to detail”.

Fensome, from Bridgnorth, in Shropshire, works across the county, as well as in Herefordshire and the Black Country.

He was inspired to enter the sector after attending his uncle’s funeral.

“As sad as it was, I remember seeing the firm and thinking I’m looking for work, I’d love to work for these,” he said.

“It was the professionalism, they had such an aura of respect about them and it just drew my interest.”