IT is so odd when attending the crematorium for a funeral service to see everyone waiting outside or in the foyer for the hearse to arrive.

Surely it is the privilege of close family and friends to accompany their loved ones into the chapel where other mourners will be standing awaiting their arrival?

I spoke to the crematorium director about this and she says she is unable to persuade people to go in beforehand.

Similar behaviour occurs at weddings where everyone is reluctant to go into the church until the arrival of the bride, despite the knowledge of interminable time being taken for photographs after the service.

When did these customs change?

Name and address supplied