A FAMILY-RUN funeral service in Colchester has won the title of Funeral Director of the Year.

The accolade has been given by the Prestige Awards acknowledging the hard work the businesshas put in to customer care.

John J Smith Funeral and Memorial Services is a Colchester-based, family-run business, with additional branches in Clacton and Brightlingsea.

It won the award after entering a national competition.

The company has won the award for its exceptional service, taking out much of the anxiety and trauma for customers following the death of a loved one.

The judges praised the family firm’s adaptability as it was able to pivot its services away from the traditional approach during the strenuous pandemic period.

The judges further noted even though many restrictions were in place at the time, the business was able to ensure great care for each client.

They observed John J Smith Funeral Services worked tirelessly, ensuring every family was looked after, whilst making sure every person received the best possible funeral.

It was further noted the company achieved an unsurpassed level of kindness and compassion for its clientele, ensuring it is one of the most recommended funeral directors in the area.

The Prestige Awards was launched to highlight local businesses and celebrate independent trading.

The team behind the awards conducts thorough research to identify thriving businesses in major cities and regions across the globe.

The judging panel takes many areas into consideration, such as service excellence, product or service quality, innovation and new, ethical and sustainable practices.

On winning the award, owner John Smith Senior said: “I am delighted and so proud of my family.

“Our families are always at the heart of what we do, so by being voted for by families and clergy in the community means the world to us.”

His sister Hayley Ward added: “It is truly amazing to be recognised for something you love to do.

 “We are overwhelmed and grateful for being awarded the Funeral Directors of the Year by the Prestige Awards.

"Thank you to the people who make it possible to continue to look after our funeral families as it is a team effort.”