TEIGNMOUTH’S Oliver Knapman is delighted his family-run firm has been awarded Funeral Directors of the Year 2020/21 as part of the South West England Prestige Awards.
Oliver said: ‘I was truly humbled to even be nominated for this award particularly during these times.’
He and his team were thrilled to then win, especially against so much competition.
Oliver has always taken enormous pride over his standards and the care given to families and their loved ones.
‘We are so thankful to all those who have put their trust in us to carry out funeral arrangements and especially to those who nominated us.’
The judges praised Oliver J Knapman Funeral Service for ‘endeavouring to fully honour their clients’ deceased relatives by creating a service that allows them to plan a funeral that feels personal and unique.
‘Unlike many corporate chains in the funeral directors industry, personal service and continuity are at the forefront of Oliver’s service.
‘It is clear Oliver and his family are highly knowledgeable and experienced in guiding families through the death of a loved one with care and discretion, allowing them to put their loved one to rest with as little grievance as possible.’
Winning this award came as a big surprise to Oliver, having only been in business for three years.
Initially starting the business from home and thanks to early success, he quickly obtained his own personalised vehicle fleet and a premises at 22 Brunswick Street, Teignmouth.
‘From day one we have been providing a traditional, quality funeral service at a fair and reasonable price, without compromising on good old fashioned personal service,’ says Oliver.
During these difficult times for all, Oliver J. Knapman is very aware that some think funerals may be more difficult to personalise and tailor but they understand this and continue to strive to make the funeral as unique as the life that has been lived.
To Oliver, funeral directing means what it says: ‘The funeral director should be there for the bereaved family every step of the way, from the initial call through to the funeral service.’
The team is made up of my family. My father, Andrew, and his mother, Paula, understand the traditional values and high standards that are expected by the local community having run The Glendaragh Nursing Home in Teignmouth for many years.
‘My brother Harry has a full-time job but gives up his spare time to assist the running of the business.
‘Tom Clark, my godfather, has a lifetime of experience within the funeral profession having spent many years living and working in Teignmouth, serving the local community.’