COFFINS are to be commissioned for dead expats, it has emerged.

In a statement, the Help in Hands group said: “Following a Voices report on the unusually high number of deaths in Didim recently, Help-In-Hands has taken action.

“Responding to being approached  by a number of expats, and taking into account the fact that a funeral can take place less than 48 hours after the person is deceased, the group has commissioned a standard British coffin, which will be kept in storage until needed.”

Chairwoman Lynn Cole reassured the public that the coffins would not be recycled for other burials as at first it was perceived, but used in the traditional sense and for burial.  

She said: “This is a very sensitive subject. However the matter has been brought to our attention on a number of occasions by expatriates living in the town.

“As a group we have to be tactful and sympathetic but unfortunately practical decisions have to be made about funeral arrangements and the formalities can be particularly worrying.

“We are here to help our community and by having a coffin on hold, we hope to ease the burden put on family and friends at such a formidable time.”

For more details, contact Lynn on 0531 671 6773.