Well-known Horsell florist turns her attention to funeral directing

A Horsell florist who has served the local community for 27 years has decided to become a funeral director. Rachel Chambers – who opened Ring-a-Roses on Hermitage Road in 1994 – is now helping to lead a new funeral home alongside fellow resident Debby Loughman.

The new service is owned by Woking Funeral Service, which has operated in the area since the 1800s from their branches in Knaphill and on Goldsworth Road in Woking, but has now expanded with its new premises on Horsell High Street. The new branch has on-site parking, a prominent window display, and is easily accessible via local bus routes.

“As a florist, I’ve had the pleasure of working with them for 15 years and have often suggested that they open in Horsell,” said Chambers. “I was over the moon to be given the opportunity to help make this a reality.”

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The new premises have been renovated with Chambers in mind, as she has multiple sclerosis. The branch includes touchscreen technologies, wheelchair access, automatic doors, livestreaming equipment and Bluetooth devices. The company believes this will mean the branch will use less paper and contribute towards reduced waste and carbon emissions.

“We’re very proud of our community initiatives at Woking Funeral Service,” said the company’s Regional Development Manager James Ray. “We’ve helped families raise over £436,301 for charities like Woking & Sam Beare Hospices through MuchLoved, the online bereavement platform, on behalf of their loved ones, and we can’t wait to do more for the Horsell community.”

The service is offering a special opening discount of £300 off funeral plans until May 31 – customers can enquire by calling 01483 910 070 (open 24 hours a day), visiting the service’s website, or visiting the branch in person at 78 High Street, Horsell.