Richard Spedding - Humanist wedding, vow renewal & funeral celebrant

Richard Spedding - Humanist wedding, vow renewal & funeral celebrant Humanists UK accredited funeral and wedding celebrant covering the Lancashire, mainly Fylde and Blackpool, area and beyond.

Once again - a lovely way to start a new week (and month). Makes all the hard work so worthwhile when I receive a review...
01/06/2026

Once again - a lovely way to start a new week (and month). Makes all the hard work so worthwhile when I receive a review like this 🧡💖💙❤️

Ken Geddes’ fascination with electricity was sparked by watching the film *Flash Gordon* during his younger years, ultim...
31/05/2026

Ken Geddes’ fascination with electricity was sparked by watching the film *Flash Gordon* during his younger years, ultimately leading him to become an electrician.

Throughout his career, Ken, alongside his son John, worked on virtually every street in Blackpool.

His projects included notable work on the monkey and flamingo enclosures at Blackpool Zoo, as well as wiring for his funeral directors, D Hollowell & Sons "Fylde Funerals", where he felt uneasy about noises coming from downstairs, only to find out it was simply someone power washing a car!

In the 1980s, Ken made a significant mark by single-handedly rewiring Blackpool Town Hall and also undertaking the challenging task of rewiring Talbot Street Car Park, which involved laying down an impressive three miles of cabling.

His dedication to his craft was driven primarily by his desire to provide for his family—his wife Jasmine and their children, Janet and John.

Ken was truly one of Blackpool’s real characters, and it meant the world to him that not only his son John but now also his grandson Robert continue the K.W. Geddes legacy as electricians in Blackpool.

He was equally proud of his grandaughter Katie, who became a teacher in Northamptonshire.

Ken’s commitment to his family and community will be remembered fondly by all who knew him. ⚡️🔌❤️

It always holds special significance for me when I'm asked to conduct the funeral of a fellow Leeds United supporter, as...
29/05/2026

It always holds special significance for me when I'm asked to conduct the funeral of a fellow Leeds United supporter, as it does for fellow Leeds supporter Adrian from today’s funeral directors Box Brothers Funeral Services.

Wayne Fannon, who was raised in Bradford, moved to Blackpool at the age of 14 with his parents, Sheila and Graham, along with his brother Chris and sisters Chell and Danielle.

At just 10 years old, Wayne suffered a life-changing accident; if it hadn't been for his tracksuit stuffed with conkers, he might not have survived.

Despite the challenges he faced, he made a remarkable recovery and went on to become a devoted father to his daughters Chloe and Ellie-Mae, as well as to his son Carl, who tragically died as a baby.

Wayne exemplified resilience, continuously pushing forward despite life's obstacles.

He found joy in simple pleasures, like playing bingo at the Mecca with his mother. It was touching to see one of the bingo callers in attendance at his funeral today, a testament to the connections he formed there.

The crematorium was adorned in Leeds United colours, with the club's badge displayed on both TVs and a beautiful floral football tribute honouring his passion. I also played the Leeds theme tune, Marching on Together, sung by the famous 1970’s team manager by the great Don Revie.

Branstree Road is going to feel very different without Wayne, especially considering how deeply loved he was by so many.

His spirit and enthusiasm for life will be missed by all who knew him, but especially his mother Sheila. ❤️⚽️🌟

#❤⚽️🌟

Receiving this review today couldn’t have been more perfectly timed! Thank you so much ❤️♥️💙💖🧡
28/05/2026

Receiving this review today couldn’t have been more perfectly timed! Thank you so much ❤️♥️💙💖🧡

Wendy Penketh's order of service beautifully reflected her passion for butterflies, which also adorned her coffin along ...
28/05/2026

Wendy Penketh's order of service beautifully reflected her passion for butterflies, which also adorned her coffin along with a stunning floral tribute.

She was a larger-than-life character who channeled her vibrant personality into various roles, not only working at local Blackpool shops like Fashion Spot on Topping Street but also, more importantly, working as a counsellor for SSAFA while her husband Steve was in the army.

Wendy kept herself busy with a variety of hobbies, including card making and diamond art.

However, it was her deep love for her husband Steve, daughter Nikki, and grandsons Jamie and Kenzie that truly brought meaning to her life.

Wendy and Steve’s meeting in the '80s at Man Fridays was memorable—especially when Wendy spilled beer over Steve’s borrowed trendy tie!

Undeterred by this clumsy encounter, they married about a year later and enjoyed 42 wonderful years together.

Wendy and Nikki had a bond that resembled that of sisters more than mother and daughter.

They shared countless adventures while always making time for sweet moments, including hugs and heartfelt "I love yous" at the end of any time spent together.

Wendy's legacy of love and joy will be cherished by all who knew her. 🦋❤️🌸

Big thanks to Olivia and Adrian at Box Brothers Funeral Services and their team to make sure we all gave Wendy a proper send off.

It’s important for me that my humble little business gives back to the community by supporting local charities. Today, I...
22/05/2026

It’s important for me that my humble little business gives back to the community by supporting local charities.

Today, I became a friend of the Blackpool Grand Theatre, a place I adore visiting and learning about its rich history whilst watching some excellent shows.

In fact, I had the honour of performing a funeral on its stage back in February 2022 for the legendary Tony Jo, making this support feel like a perfect fit.

The Grand Theatre holds a special place in my heart, and I’m excited to contribute to its continued success and community presence.

Supporting such a cultural gem is a meaningful way to celebrate the arts and history that enrich our lives along with keeping alive Blackpool’s wonderful heritage. 🎭❤️✨

In the 1950s to the 80s, it was the responsibility of Mary and others to provide beds and meals for the thousands of gue...
22/05/2026

In the 1950s to the 80s, it was the responsibility of Mary and others to provide beds and meals for the thousands of guests drawn to Blackpool’s bustling hospitality industry.

Mary, during those years and along with her husband Denis, brother George, and sister-in-law Kath, managed The Windsor Hotel, which later became The Royal Windsor Hotel, located near the Central Pier.

During the busy tourist season, it was truly “all hands on deck,” particularly during two major influxes: the OAPs in early June and the Scots in early July.

Mary married Denis in March 1952, and together they enjoyed an impressive 74 years of “married bliss.”

They were blessed with two children, Virginia and Paul, three grandchildren—Lisa, Carly, and Alex—and six great-grandchildren.

At Mary’s funeral, Lisa shared lovely memories on behalf of Mary’s grandchildren, and Carly read a heartfelt poem, capturing the essence of their time spent with their beloved grandma.

Mary lived a remarkable life, reaching the grand old age of 94.

She will be fondly remembered by many family and friends, especially her devoted husband Denis, who sat at his wife’s funeral yesterday beaming with pride and love. 🌹❤️✨

A delightful morning spent talking to yet another local group about my role as a humanist celebrant, along with how I t...
19/05/2026

A delightful morning spent talking to yet another local group about my role as a humanist celebrant, along with how I transitioned into that role from my previous career in the police.

A lovely ladies coffee group in St Anne’s were today’s group and, during the question and answer session, asked me some very relevant questions.

As usual, any fee groups wish to provide me with goes straight to charity - this time the wonderful Homeless Hounds - Dogs In Need in Blackpool is where the £63 will be donated to.

If you are a member of or know of a group who would like me to speak to, then please do get in touch.

A direct cremation offers a more affordable funeral option, where no attendees are present at the crematorium and no for...
16/05/2026

A direct cremation offers a more affordable funeral option, where no attendees are present at the crematorium and no formal service is conducted.

This option now accounts for an estimated 15 to 20% of all cremations.

Many opt for the services of either a national provider or the more personalised touch of a local Funeral Director.

Increasingly, I receive requests to conduct a memorial ceremony following a direct cremation, so here’s what that typically involves:

**Venue**

The ceremony is held at a location meaningful to the deceased, such as a favorite pub, club, back garden, their home or an open-air setting.

**Focal Point**

I always recommend having a “focal point” during the ceremony—a table adorned with sentimental items, often including the deceased's ashes, to create a personal and intimate focal point.

**Total Focus on ‘Life and Personality’ **

My brand and style of funerals is ideal for a memorial ceremony.

Like all my ceremonies, they totally focus on the life and personality of the deceased, often incorporating contributions from family and friends, as well as their favourite music.

This once included us all punk pogo dancing to the classic ‘Nellie the Elephant’ which took me a fortnight to recover from!

**Symbolic Farewell**

We still find a way to say goodbye, usually accompanied by a toast, allowing attendees to share in a meaningful moment.

**Benefits**

Families frequently express gratitude for having a follow-up memorial ceremony, as it provides an opportunity for them to bid farewell in a more relaxed atmosphere.

Typically, the ceremony is followed by food and music, similar to what’s known as a ‘traditional wake’ creating a celebratory environment whilst many stories are shared!

If you're interested in planning such a ceremony with me, then please feel free to reach out. And just so you know, my fee for this service is the same to that of a traditional funeral.

Let’s create a heartfelt tribute together! 🌼✨🥂

Another so very kind review received ❤️❤️❤️
15/05/2026

Another so very kind review received ❤️❤️❤️

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Weeton
PR43WG

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+447447908305

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