Funeral director celebrates 190 years

Independent funeral director A B Walker has celebrated its 190th anniversary with the opening of a new branch in Maidenhead.

The branch in Bridge Road marks a milestone in the history of one of Berkshire’s oldest family businesses.

It was formally opened by Mr James Puxley, the Lord-Lieutenant for the Royal County of Berkshire. Prayers of dedication were offered by Revd Margaret Bird, the Area Dean.

A B Walker is a fifth generation family business now run by brothers Julian and Matthew Walker and the Maidenhead branch is their seventh location.

“We have been growing steadily and we believe that is because of the quality and independent service we offer,” said Julian.

“The funeral industry is changing but the need for caring, compassion, quality and trust will always stay the same. That’s how we have built our reputation for generations.”

The past and the future come together in the new branch in Maidenhead. The design reflects A B Walker’s recent rebrand. But on the wall is a picture of Alfred Blyth Walker who took over the business in 1882.

“While we celebrate our heritage we are mindful of the need to innovate and develop the services we provide,” said Julian. “Memory Giving is a sister company to A B Walker that collects millions of pounds of funeral donations for funeral directors throughout the UK. We have a bereavement care programme called The Link and an integrated partnership with Golden Charter, the leading independent provider of funeral plans in the UK.

“We are very much looking to the future.”

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