Our Team

Our History

The company can trace its roots back through three generations of the Walker family. The grandfather of the current proprietor, Alexander Davidson Walker originally acquired the business interests on the retirement of Alexander Rennie in 1957, continuing the traditional practice of joinery businesses also carrying out the role of undertaker.

The first undertaker appointed was Charles Finlayson, and the premises consisting of two cottages at Victoria Place were purchased for use as Rest Rooms.

In order to provide a suitable hearse, the Austin Shearline formerly belonging to the Countess of Seafield was purchased, and the bodywork converted by the local firm of Crichton & Hay in Banff. The vehicle was kept in storage after it eventually became surplus to requirements, and was passed on locally with plans to restore it to its former glory.

In time, ownership of the company passed to John Walker, who continued to develop the business, and when Charlie Finlayson was due to retire, Bob Millar came onboard to take over the reins in the mid 80’s. John and Bob were instrumental in carrying out a substantial alteration and extension to the Rest Rooms to form the current configuration of buildings.

Due to the impact of the global pandemic, there are a number of government restrictions on how funeral arrangements and services are carried out.

We take the safety of our clients and staff extremely seriously and are required to adhere to the regulations and recommendations laid down by government, professional trade organisations and our service providers. We have also carried our own risk assessments to minimise any risk of transmission.

The full information can be found on the relevant website as noted below, but the following is a brief summary of some of the main areas which differ from what we would normally seek to provide.

https://www.gov.scot/publications/coronavirus-covid-19-guidance-for-funeral-services/

1. Funeral services are restricted to 20 people maximum. This maximum may be reduced dependent on the specific capacity of any venue chosen. Please note that at cemeteries, Council staff are under instruction to stop proceedings if more than 20 mourners are present at the graveside.
2. Our rest rooms are currently limited to 15 persons.
3. Funeral arrangements should be carried out remotely by phone or email.
4. Viewing of the deceased is permitted, but only on one occasion by appointment only.
5. At all times, in all areas, social distancing must be observed between different households.
6. Masks must be worn at all times while inside buildings.
7. Track and trace information must be collected for all inside gatherings. This will be treated with full confidentiality.
8. Carrying and lowering of coffins at a graveside is permitted, but all concerned must wear masks and gloves. We can provide this service if families prefer not to do this.

Our staff and colleagues are required to wear masks and gloves during all interactions. While this is not ideal, the intention of this is to keep all parties as safe as possible.

We realise the difficulty all this will cause during this time, but we hope for your understanding in minimising the risk of spreading COVID-19.

The above list is only a partial summary of the restrictions imposed. Please contact us with any questions which arise on any aspect of the arrangements, and we thank you for helping us observe the advice as closely as possible.

A D Walker Funeral Directors Ltd