The cheapest place to be cremated in Kent has been revealed in a new study.

Statistics show it costs £650 to be cremated in Medway, less than the national average of £783.18 and the lowest price across the county.

Cremation costs in the Towns are more than £300 cheaper than in Folkestone - the most expensive place in the county where it costs £999 to be cremated.

The price of cremation has rapidly increased since the 1990s when the national average fee was £90.43.

Medway was also listed as the 80th busiest out of the 290 crematoriums across the UK.

John Weir, of John Weir Funeral directors, which has branches in Rainham, Gillingham, Parkwood and Chatham, said: “It’s quite interesting that Medway Crematorium is rated 80th busiest in the UK.

“The rise in cost is to do with the legal requirements on cremations to be environmentally friendly. It’s had a massive cost to local authorities.

“They have to reduce emissions of carbon dioxide and mercury. Funeral directors have to sign a document to say that the coffin doesn’t have anything that would give off toxic fumes.

“Many have had to put in new cremators to fit the standard, I think Medway Crematorium has had to spend nearly £2million.

“Last year 75% of deaths were cremations. It’s by far the most popular form of disposal.”

Medway Council’s head of regulatory services, James Brown, said: “We understand that people who require our services are going through a bereavement and we are committed to making the process as straightforward as possible.

“Cremations may have become more popular as they can be cheaper than a burial. Some families also find that cremations can be a more pleasant and comforting experience.

“The price of cremations has increased over recent years due to the installation of new equipment which was needed to comply with pollution standards.

“We are pleased to be able to offer customers value for money at a competitive rate and our fees are amongst the least expensive in Kent.”

The figures were compiled by Urns for Ashes, an independent supplier of cremation urns, scatter tubes and memorials.