“AN UNUSUALLY high volume” of bookings for funerals is being experienced in Tranent and Prestonpans, East Lothian Council has confirmed.

A spokeswoman for the local authority said: “The council is currently dealing with an unusually high volume of bookings for funerals, particularly within the Tranent and Prestonpans clusters.

“We currently have confirmed bookings right up to the end of February, meaning our normal response time of five days is being significantly exceeded.

“Wherever possible, suitably experienced staff are being brought in from other clusters to try and minimise any delays. However, the other clusters are dealing with their normal busy winter schedules.

“The council will work closely with funeral directors to try and minimise any additional distress for families at their time of need and hopefully reduce waiting times as soon as possible.”