A FUNERAL firm in the Borders has stopped providing limousines for mourners as part of measures to counter coronavirus.

David Hardie & Son Funeral Directors, of Galashiels, is taking care to follow social-distancing guidelines.

Home visits are no longer being offered, while families are now having to travel to the crematorium or cemetery in their own vehicles.

Manager Leslie Stewart told us: "It may not be what we envisaged a month or even last week, but it is the new reality."

Embalmings and viewings are continuing, but attendees are obeying the social-distancing rules.

Mr Stewart said: “While we are having to change how we would normally support families throughout the loss of a loved one, we are nonetheless fully committed to providing a first-class service within the confines of current legislation.

“Our role is to ensure that loved ones get the send‐off they deserve and their families get to share in a celebration of their life. It may not be what we envisaged a month or even last week, but it is the new reality and we are ensuring we carry our families’ wishes respectfully in line with government guidelines.

“We know saying goodbye to a loved one is hard at the best of times and we fully realise the impact these restrictions will have on families. Crucially, we are here 24/7 for anyone who needs us, and our staff are working round the clock so that we can continue to carry out our services safely.”