Snaps showing Chas A Nethercott throughout the last 100 years

A FAMILY-RUN funeral directors has marked its 100th anniversary with a dignified candlelight thanksgiving service.

Chas A. Nethercott & Sons, based in Darkes Lane, Potters Bar, observed its centenary year on Saturday with a service at St Mary the Virgin and All Saints Church in The Walk for the many families the firm has served through the years.

Attendees were invited to 
light a candle at the front of the church in memory of their loved ones, as a year’s worth of centenary celebrations came to a close.

The company was founded in 1911 by Charles Arlingham Nethercott, who began working as a builder, undertaker and cabinet maker at his family home in Blackhorse Lane, South 
Mimms.

The firm moved to Potters Bar in 1946, and gradually expanded into the rest of Hertsmere – an office in Radlett opened in 1986, followed by Borehamwood in 2006.

Snaps showing Chas A Nethercott throughout the last 100 years

Current managing director Charles Nethercott, the grandson of Charles the founder, took over as head of the business from his own father, Cuthbert, in 1984, having first joined the business in 1969.

Today, Charles is supported by wife Elizabeth and youngest daughter Victoria, ensuring Nethercotts will stay in the family for years to come.

“I’m very proud to think my family’s company has been trading for 100 years, and I hope it will continue for many more,” Charles, 59, said.

“I intend to carry on for some while yet, but I wouldn’t be able to do that if it weren’t for my great and supportive staff.”