Elgin funeral director achieves prestigious industry certification
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AN ELGIN-based funeral director has achieved a prestigious industry certification.
Derek Johnston, a funeral operative and qualified embalmer with WG Catto, received full member status from the British Institute of Embalmers.
The certification – and now membership - recognises Derek’s skill, commitment and competence in the art of embalming.
Derek's membership has been awarded after an intense period of study, practical tuition and examination on the process of embalming.
He said: “It's a massive accomplishment to have achieved this status and probably the most comprehensive training I've completed so far in my career.
"Now, I’m looking forward to the next stage of specialist reconstruction training so, along with my colleagues, I can offer our customers the very highest standards of funeral care."
A former soldier, care of the deceased has been a passion of Derek's since he joined WG Catto, part of the William Purves Group, a decade ago.
Having completed various independent courses, the path to joining the British Institute of Embalmers took four years due to Covid interruptions.
The Scottish Division Chair of the Institute, Kelly McBride, and National President Richard D. Van Ness, personally awarded Derek the certificate and congratulated him on the achievement.
