Revd Daniel Ackerley, of John Duckworth Funeral Directors, received two awards at the Good Funeral Awards last month.
Revd Daniel, who is an Associate Minister in the Benefice of St Peter’s, Stockton-on-Tees and St John’s, Elton, was awarded Funeral Director of the Year and Minister of the Year.
He was nominated by families that he had taken care of over his tenure, particularly during lockdown.
As reported in the Sunderland Echo, Kayren House - General Manager of John Duckworth Funeral Directors - said: “Daniel is an outstanding funeral director and he well and truly deserves both of these accolades for his passion, sincerity and unwavering dedication.
“The funeral industry can be emotionally draining and whenever one of us needs a pick me up, we can always rely on Daniel – he is a joy to work with and he is an integral part to our team.”
Daniel added: “When I arrived at the awards, there were so many people there, I didn’t think I stood a chance of winning anything but I was so happy to be there.
"When my name was read out for Minister of the Year, I was astounded, and when I was then awarded Funeral Director of the Year, I was absolutely speechless.
"The pandemic was emotionally draining time for everyone, especially those working in the funeral profession. We spent a lot of time thinking about how we could provide the same care and compassion to our families in such difficult circumstances.
"It was just wonderful to receive these two awards and I feel so humbled to win both. I’m extremely grateful for all the lovely testimonials from everyone who nominated me. It was so very much appreciated and it was an occasion which will stay with me forever more.”