Established Yorkshire Dales family business joins Funeral Partners

Established family business Simon Barningham Funeral Directors has become part of Funeral Partners as the company focuses on strengthening its presence and portfolio in North Yorkshire.

Based in the Yorkshire Dales, where Simon Barningham has spent his whole life, the business has a long tradition of serving its rural and farming communities.

In 1961 Barningham’s uncle had bought the funeral business Ernest Bagshaw, which had been established in Swaledale before the First World War. He joined the firm straight from school and his father also worked for the company.

After his uncle died, he took over the business in 1984 and subsequently re-named it Simon Barningham Funeral Directors, running it with the support of his family.

Barningham said: “It’s been such a way of life, I will continue to work in the business and with local families, but being part of Funeral Partners, I will have more support. I am amazed by the intimate and supportive family atmosphere of Funeral Partners, I feel very much at home with them. They will help to move the business forward in the same style, with continuity of what we’re doing.”

Funeral Partners’ operational support manager Phil Barr added: “Simon Barningham Funeral Directors has established a strong reputation over many years for providing high standards and personal service to the rural communities around Swaledale and Wensleydale. The business already has a close working relationship with John Blenkiron & Sons in Richmond, also part of Funeral Partners, and makes an excellent addition to our family of businesses.”