A LOCAL funeral director has been left ‘absolutely gobsmacked’ after being nominated for not one but two awards in the space of 24 hours.
Anthony Barton Independent Family Funeral Service was initially put forward for Best Funeral Director at The Association of Green Funeral Directors (AGFD) Good Funeral Awards 2024.
The Mossley-based business then learned the following day that it was also up for the Most Promising Newcomer to the Trade accolade too.

It’s a proud moment for Anthony, who has described the nominations as “a truly humbling experience” and “a significant achievement in itself”.
He told The Correspondent: “Within a short span of seven months since establishing our family-owned business, I have had the privilege of serving numerous families and the community.
“It was a surprise when I received the emails from AGFD, informing me about the nominations. I am truly humbled by the recognition.”
The finalists for the awards will be announced in due course, ahead of the ceremony on Saturday, September 14, at The Eden Project in Cornwall.
The AGFD is a not-for-profit organisation aiming to bring natural eco-friendly funerals into the mainstream.
Anthony recently installed a white postbox outside its premises on Stamford Street so that family and friends can write messages to deceased loved ones.
I am not surprised buy these nominations Anthony has worked so hard for our community for years and going it alone was a must for our community not only is he there for you in the time of need but also there for a brew and a chat about day to day stuff and always doing fun stuff for the kids in the area good luck Anthony ❤️❤️❤️
Thank you so much for your kind words, Dave. it’s was an absolute honour to care for your beautiful Son.
Anthony actually deserves to win both these awards, he was there when I needed him after my husband passed away . He is gentle , compassionate and a truly amazing person who will always go the extra mile to provide a second to none service at the most difficult time. He really is the only person to go to at this horrible time.
It’s truly touching, Lesley, that you took the time to write such kind words about me, especially considering you just had the funeral of your beloved husband.
I am not surprised at all that Anthony is up for these two amazing awards it just goes to show how caring and compassionate this man really is I have known mr Barton for some years now and he always goes that extra mile to make sure people have what thay need at such sad times he is a legend in his own right keep up the amazing work you do for all these amazing people in your care and thanks for all you do for the community ????????????❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
Chris, I really appreciate it. Reading these comments and seeing that I’ve made a difference for so many people, and that they’ve taken the time to nominate me, means a great deal to me.
Anthony Barton you are a credit to the profession. Not only are you professional and knowledgeable, you CARE and that is why you deserve both awards x Piers and I are very proud of you x