You may decide to read out your loved one’s favourite poem or a section of their favourite book, or you may find it more appropriate to write a small speech yourself. This can include anecdotes of fond memories that you and your relatives have of the deceased, or it could be given as a way to sum up the life and personality of the person that has recently passed away.

It is understandable that you may not have experience of writing a eulogy before and you are likely to find it difficult to know where to start. It can also be an incredibly emotional experience to create a unique eulogy, but don’t worry – help is on hand.

The Co-Operative Funeral care has created a special guide to help you. This guide features a foreword by the Poet Laureate Andrew Motion and includes information on every aspect of writing a eulogy, from choosing the content to delivering it on the day of the funeral. You can view this guide, titled ‘Well Chosen Words – How to Write a Eulogy’, online in PDF format.