RESIDENTS will be given the opportunity to view Kingsdown Crematorium and Cemetery in a new light on Saturday as its 50th anniversary is marked.

A number of activities are being held throughout the day to mark the occasion and visitors will be able to learn about the history of the site.

Each year, more than 2,000 services are held there so the crematorium holds a special place in the hearts of many Swindon families.

But the staff at Kingsdown are keen to show people it is not just a place of sadness but can also be a place for people to relax and enjoy the surroundings.

Mamie Beasant, Swindon Borough Council’s Head of Registration and Bereavement Services, said: “We have lovely grounds here so it is a chance to show people when they are not here necessarily for personal reasons.

“There is rolling countryside and the flowers at this time of year look lovely.

“The crematorium is important to a lot of people and as Swindon grows that is going to increase. We want to take this opportunity to show people there is more here.”

As well as a number of events and ceremonies to mark the occasion, there will also be an opportunity to go behind the scenes and meet some of the staff.

“What we have found is people are very curious to find out about what goes on here so we will be giving tours,” said Mamie.

“This way they can see things without the emotion of a cremation attached. We will be holding a memorial service which people can come along to.

“There is also a lot of history to this site so we have been working with the Swindon Historical Society and there will be someone giving a talk.

“People can also just come along and just enjoy the grounds. Anyone is welcome.”

A variety of interactive events are planned for visitors, including the service at 1.50pm featuring the Great Western Harmony Choir in the chapel to remember those who have been cremated at the facility.

There will also be a memorial bench and timeline unveiled by Swindon Mayor Councillor Andrew Bennett.

As well as giving tours, staff will be available to help people look up old cremation and burial records and help with their genealogy enquiries.

Stone masons, funeral directors and other businesses will man stands at the open day, which will conclude with a balloon launch to commemorate those cremated and buried there.

People do not have to book to attend the open day, which begins at 11am. Tours will be at 11.15am, 12.15pm and 1.15pm.