Funeral directors in missing ashes probe expelled by trade body

A funeral firm at the centre of a police investigation into claims of missing ashes has been expelled from the National Association of Funeral Directors.

Following a disciplinary investigation the National Association of Funeral Directors (NAFD) said that A Milne Funeral Directors will be permanently excluded from the association, with immediate effect.

Detectives this month launched a probe into the now-closed business amid allegations of ashes going missing, families being given the wrong remains, and financial misconduct.

The family-run firm had branches in Springburn, Glasgow, and Dumbarton, West Dunbartonshire.

Police Scotland completed a search of the premises in Balornock Road, Springburn earlier this month and said any ashes found would “be treated with the utmost respect”.

The NAFD Disciplinary Committee met this week and decided to expel the firm.

An NAFD spokesperson said: “Following a disciplinary investigation, A Milne Funeral Directors in Dumbarton and Glasgow has been expelled from the National Association of Funeral Directors.

“The decision, made by the NAFD Disciplinary Committee following a hearing, stipulated that A Milne Funeral Directors will be permanently excluded from the Association, with immediate effect.

“Representatives from A Milne chose not to attend the hearing.

“Furthermore, all directors associated with the company will be excluded from NAFD membership in respect of any alternative funeral business of which they are a director, now or in the future.

“The series of allegations received related to a pattern of behaviour not compatible with the Independent Funeral Standards Organisation (IFSO) Funeral Director Code.”

Argyll and Bute Council said that it has taken eight containers of ashes back into its care at Cardross Crematorium after they were found on the premises of A Milne Funeral Directors and handed to the local authority by police.

Detective Inspector Gerry Shovlin, of Clydebank CID, previously said: “This is a very sensitive and emotive case and we recognise the upset and distress that families have experienced.

“Our investigation has been going on for several weeks now and will continue for some time, due to the level of inquiry that will need to be followed up.

“It is a complex inquiry that involves a number of agencies, but families can be reassured that the ashes of their loved ones are a priority and will be treated with the utmost respect.”

A Milne Independent Funeral Directors has been approached for comment.