Julian & Karen Hussey and Eric & Joyce Dunford are well known as trusted, local family funeral directors, A. G. Down in South Street, where the business has been in the family since 1979.

A. G. Down was established by Arthur Down on his return from World War Two and bought by Eric in 1979. Eric was joined by his wife, Joyce, in 1985. Eric was born in Bridport and Joyce in the Marshwood Vale, so both have strong connections within the local communities.

They were joined by Joyce's son, Julian Hussey in the early nineties, after he had gained his Diploma in Funeral Directing and worked in the funeral profession in various parts of the country. Born in Bridport, Julian has a wealth of local connections and has been involved in many community projects. Having been a keen player, Julian is chairman of Bridport Rugby Club, as well as coaching the under 16s side.

Julian & Karen met whilst studying to become members of the British Institute of Embalmers, as she was working as a funeral director in Hampshire at the time. They married in 1995 and, once their children were in full time education, Karen joined the company on a full time basis. Karen also holds a NAFD Diploma in Funeral Directing.

One of the couple's children, George, has also joined the business.

Julian, whose family has had businesses in Bridport since 1911, said: "As a family we are passionate about openness, honesty and standards and continue to serve in various roles for the National Association of Funeral Directors; a benchmark of the funeral industry."

In 2019, local funeral director, Darren Holt, joined the team at A. G. Down. Darren has almost 10 years' experience in the funeral industry and obtained his BIFD Diploma in Funeral Services in 2016. He is a caring and empathetic member of the team as well as being a recognisable face within the town. Darren continues to care for those who are in need of our services within his local community.

Darren said: "It is very family orientated, which I like. Very professional and warm and just a nice environment to work in."

A. G. Down has its own service room on site for all types of Service, with an adjacent dining room where refreshments can be served.

Karen said: "We're not corporate in any way and have extremely high standards. We don't sell packages and we're very happy for people to do what they want to do. It's about letting people have a choice."

The pricelist and further information can be seen online at www.funeraldirectors.uk.com and there is always someone (invariably a member of the family) to answer your call personally on 01308 422643.

A. G. Down also has its own monumental workshop based in South Street and is proud to be a member of The British Register of Accredited Monumental Masons.