Direct Cremations from £1200

About Us

A Gentle Hand at Life’s Hardest Moments

At Shire Funeral Services, we believe that saying goodbye should be personal, straightforward, and free from unnecessary stress or expense. Founded by three professionals with over 25 years of combined experience, we created Shire Funeral Services to provide families with a thoughtful and more accessible alternative to larger, traditional providers.

During our years in the profession, we recognised that many families were looking for simpler options, as well as clear guidance and fair pricing. While we specialise in dignified direct cremations for those who prefer a private and uncomplicated farewell, we also offer fully tailored traditional funeral services for families who wish to hold a ceremony or gathering to celebrate the life of their loved one.

Whatever you choose, our commitment remains the same — to provide compassionate care, complete transparency, and genuine value. All essential arrangements are handled in house by our experienced team, ensuring every detail is managed with professionalism and respect. There are no hidden fees or unnecessary extras, just honest advice and supportive guidance at every step. As a local, independent funeral director, we are proud to serve our community with integrity and understanding. Every family is different, and we take the time to listen, helping you create a farewell that feels right for you.

At Shire Funeral Services, we are here to help you honour your loved one’s life with dignity, care, and sincerity — whether simple or traditional, always personal.

Meet the team

Our directors lead with professionalism, integrity, and compassion, supporting families with thoughtful care during life’s most difficult moments.

Paul-Ferrie

Paul Ferrie – Director

I’ve worked in the funeral industry for over 15 years, and in that time, I’ve learned that what families need most is simple: kindness, honesty, and genuine care. Supporting people through such a difficult time is a privilege, one that I take to heart every single day.

When I’m not working, you’ll usually find me spending time with my family, exploring the great outdoors, travelling abroad, scuba diving with sharks (yes, really!), relaxing at my cottage, or catching up with friends.

We founded this Shire Funerals to offer families a simpler, more affordable option, without ever compromising on warmth or personal care. My goal is to make every step as easy and supportive as possible, so you can focus on what truly matters: remembering your loved one.

Adam-Watts

Adam Watts – Operations Director

I have been directly involved in the funeral industry for the past four years, though my connection to this work began much earlier when I helped prepare friends and family for their own farewell services. Those early experiences shaped my deep respect for the care and compassion required in helping families say goodbye.

Family is at the heart of everything I do. As one of five children, and now raising five children of my own with my wife. I understand the importance of love, connection, and support during life’s most difficult moments.

My goal is simple: to help every family we serve say goodbye to their loved one in the way that feels right for them. Whether through a cremation or a full funeral service, I strive to make each farewell as meaningful and personal as possible.

Outside of work, I enjoy playing sports and approach both the game and life with a spirit of fairness and determination. I believe in always playing by the rules , a value I carry with me in both my personal and professional life.

Olivia-Cotterill

Olivia Cotterill – Director

I have dedicated my career to the funeral profession, beginning at the age of sixteen and gaining hands-on experience in every aspect of arranging and delivering a funeral. Over the years, I have earned my City & Guilds qualification in Masonry, the National Association of Funeral Directors Diploma in Funeral Arranging and Administration, and achieved membership with the British Institute of Embalmers.

Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of conducting a wide variety of funerals, from travellers’ ceremonies and services for close family members to simple direct cremations. This breadth of experience has given me a deep appreciation for the many different traditions, wishes, and ways in which people choose to honour their loved ones.

My work is guided by compassion, respect, and professionalism — values that underpin everything we do at Cherished Cremations. I was honoured to be featured on BBC’s Stacey Dooley: Inside The Undertakers, which offered a behind-the-scenes look at the care and dedication that define our work.

Outside of my profession, I enjoy spending weekends away in our motorhome and working on our latest home renovation project. I also love socialising and making memories with the people closest to me, moments that remind me how precious life truly is.

Direct Cremations from £1200