Parents who experience the devastating loss of a child will soon be able to benefit from free funeral arrangements.

The Three Rivers’ Liberal Democrat administration has proposed allowing free burials at its cemetery in Woodcock Hill, in Harefield Road, Rickmansworth.

Cllr Sara Bedford, leader of Three Rivers District Council, said: "As a Mum myself I know how precious a child is. Nothing can help parents get over the loss of a child, whether at birth or later in life.

“However the cost of a child's funeral adds tremendous pressure to bereaved parents at an already difficult time. Some local funeral directors already do not charge for basic funeral costs.

“I hope that this compassionate response from Three Rivers will make the arrangements just a little less of a worry and give parents and the extended family more time to grieve”.

Funeral director Adam Ginder, of MK Ginder & Sons based in Watford added: “I am pleased to hear this news. This change will enable us to provide a free service to families that have lost a child and have no provisions to pay funeral costs.

“Along with many other funeral directors, MK Ginder do not charge their own costs for baby and children's funerals.

“Now that there are no fees for the burial or cremation, parents won't need to find the funds at an already difficult time."

West Herts Crematorium, which is jointly owned by five local councils including Three Rivers, already doesn’t charge for the cremation of babies and children.