Susan Whymark Funeral Service donates Victoria wheel bier to St Mary’s Church, Redenhall

A Harleston-based funeral director has donated a wheel bier to spare pallbearers from the struggle of carrying heavy coffins to a cemetery.

For some time, funeral-goers have struggled to haul caskets to the cemetery of St Mary’s Church, in High Road.

Susan Whymark Funeral Service has come to the rescue by donating a £1,500 solid oak Victorian wheel bier, which is available to use for any funerals held at the church.

“The church is on a hill, so carrying a coffin up it can be quite difficult,” said Mrs Whymark.

“As the cemetery fills up, the burials are taking place even further back, meaning people have a long way to walk.

“It was getting to the point where we really had to do something to help.

“It will be kept at the church and is free to use by anyone.

“The church is really pleased with it, and it’s certainly made everybody’s life a lot easier,” added the 50-year-old.