A new East of England Co-op Funeral Services chapel of rest in Ipswich has been officially dedicated.

The chapel, in Boss Hall Road, opened earlier this year and was designed in partnership with East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH), St Elizabeth Hospice and the East of England Faiths Agency (formerly Suffolk Interfaith Resource Centre).

It offers a welcoming and peaceful environment, including a reception area, quiet rooms and three private viewing rooms, and is available to all members of the community, regardless of their faith or belief.

The Mayor of Ipswich, Roger Fern, cut a ribbon to officially open the chapel and Canon Charles Jenkins conducted the dedication ceremony, which was followed by a symbolic release of doves.

Guests also included Cynthia Capey, managing director of the East of England Faiths Agency (EEFA) as well as representatives from EACH, St Elizabeth Hospice, Ipswich Crematorium and Seven Hills Crematorium.

Andrew Dawes, head of specialist services at the East of England Co-op, said: “We live in a vibrant and diverse community and have worked closely with EEFA to create a space where people can practise their beliefs and reflect in a peaceful environment.”

Cynthia Capey of of EEFA added: “We appreciate the opportunity to support the work of the East of England Co-op Funeral Services. The team is well equipped with the knowledge and skills to meet the needs of clients with different faiths and from diverse cultural backgrounds.”