The increasing use of electric cremators was one of the topics of conversation at the annual meeting of the Selected Independent Funeral Homes which was held in Washing DC and attended by a Dorset funeral director.

Nick Douch, who is managing director of Douch Family Funeral Directors, attended in his capacity as chairman of the European group.

Nick said: “I always value the opportunity to gain new information and insight on future practices to better serve our families and communities.

“Selected’s meeting provided a valuable opportunity to gather with my fellow members from around the world.

“We participated in a variety of informative study sessions, discussed insights and shared new ideas that I’m excited to implement.

“Electric cremators are one innovation that we’d like to see more of in the UK.

“Meeting sessions focused on important other issues concerning the funeral service profession such as working with multiple generations, innovative branding, exploring what the future of funeral service may be, providing exceptional service, staffing and best practices.

“It was also a privilege to have my family with me to share the experience of an international conference together.

“We also got to experience the rich history of the capital city, including a poignant tour of Arlington National Cemetery.”

Founded in 1917 as National Selected Morticians, Selected Independent Funeral Homes is the world’s oldest and largest association of independently owned funeral homes.