Staff at council-owned crematoria and cemeteries in the city and across the county are set to join a national two-day Unison walkout over pay.

It means funeral services next Wednesday and Thursday have been cancelled because staff will be manning picket lines or at home instead.

And because offices are closed, funerals cannot be arranged on those days or the days after the strike either.

Funeral directors today branded the move "insensitive". It has meant inconvenience for some families who will have to hold ceremonies at private crematoria.

Cliff Ward, of Clifford Ward Funerals, Preston, said: "It has not affected us yet but it could well do because funerals are coming in.

"It is insensitive. If anything they should make a concession for this, it is hitting the ordinary people."

More than 10,000 Lancashire civil servants will go on strike next week over a 2.45% pay increase offer by local government paymasters.

Union chiefs want a 6% rise or 50p extra per hour, whichever is greater.

A Preston Council spokesman said: "There is only one burial of cremated remains due to take place during these days and this will still be carried out.

"However, no further burials or cremations can be scheduled."

There will also be no funerals in the Wyre area at council cemeteries – including Preesall.

If you have been affected, contact Matthew Squires on 01772 838104 or at matthew.squires@lep.co.uk