MONDAY January 13 will see the launch of John Gilfillan Funeral Directors, in Station Road, Cardenden.

John told the Times that when the opportunity arose he had no hesitation in making the move.

He said: "My dad and grandad were two of the many coal miners who worked at Bowhill Colliery and I am proud of my Cardenden roots.

"When I came home from the Army in the early 1990s it was always my intention to return to the place of my birth.

"Equally I am proud and privileged to have cared for Cardenden families throughout the past 25 years as a funeral director.

"I am enormously honoured to be the one to be asked to pay tribute to people who I have known personally and regarded as friends.

"And as we look to the future we can promise local families they will not have far to travel to use our Cardenden funeral home and of course a loved one may lie in rest near their families in a tasteful funeral home."

The new home in Station Road has been designed by John's wife Norma who also designed the excellent John Gilfillan Funeral Directors home in Bank Street, Lochgelly, and the Station Road facility has an equally warm and respectful family atmosphere.

Added John: "We have almost finished a complete refurbishment of the funeral home with new fittings, carpets and furniture ready for the official opening on Monday January 13.

"As in my current funeral home, in Bank Street, we will always welcome visitors, whether its to advise and answer questions regarding funeral planning or to offer funeral advice for a loved one .

"And I would like to extend a warm welcome to the Cardenden public and beyond on the 13th when there is the opportunity to look around the new funeral home and also enjoy light refreshments."

He concluded: "May I take this opportunity to thank all those families who have put their faith in John Gilfillan Funeral Directors and wish everyone a prosperous new year."