Funeral costs have nearly doubled in the last decade – yet a bill to seize control of prices and ensure ‘simple funerals’ is being heard in Parliament today in a bid to tackle to spiraling crisis.

The funeral of tragic Parklife reveller Robert Hart will take place today – as the search continues for his killer almost four months on.

Labour and Ukip are the main contenders in the fight for post of Heywood and Middleton MP following death of Jim Dobbin

The damning statistics but the blame often on religious leaders or even family members, according to the recent study by Stonewall and The Cooperative Funeralcare.

Hundreds of Rik Mayall fans have taken to Twitter to pay their final respects to the late comedy star with a series of selfies using the hashtag #FlickForRik.

Manchester’s Lesbian and Gay Foundation are urging people to talk about death and end of life issues in the run up to Dying Matters Awareness Week.

Rebekah Kirby’s devastated brother Samuel had been desperately trying to raise money to pay for a flight home from New Zealand

The break-in happened at a home on Cheshire Square, Carrbrook

Stephen Hunt died as he tackled the fire at Paul’s Hair World

Service is being held at Bury Parish Church

Funeral takes place at Bury Parish Church on Friday