KEIGHLEY funeral directors are backing a campaign calling for more support to be given to people struggling to meet the cost of a send-off.

Utley-based David Gallagher and Albert Pratt, at Wilsden, are among supporters of the Fair Funerals pledge.

They and fellow members of the National Society of Allied and Independent Funeral Directors (SAIF) have signed-up to the scheme, launched by anti-poverty charity Quaker Social Action.

Campaigners are calling on the industry to provide clear pricing and more choice so people can if they wish opt for a simple funeral with a low-cost coffin.

Alun Tucker, for SAIF, said: "Our members are independent funeral directors based in local communities across the UK who are committed to being open, honest and fair about funeral costs, so it's only natural they would want to support this campaign."

Heather Kennedy, of Quaker Social Action, said: "Funerals have become much more expensive at the same time as support from the state has dried up.

"The Fair Funerals pledge helps people access funerals they can afford and we are working with local communities to raise the profile of the pledge in their areas."