A brother and sister are set to ensure a family funeral service's future after joining their father in the business.

Sam and Lauren Skinner, aged 23 and 20, will be learning the ropes at Mark Skinner Funeral Service after joining the Brandon company last month.

They will continue the family legacy for a third generation, taking after father Mark, and their grandfather, Alexander Rolph, who was also a funeral director in Brandon.

Mr Skinner said he was looking forward to his children learning the trade after seeing them try their hand at other careers.

'We've always had an idea that they would come and work here, but we wanted to see them go out and try other things first. Sam has been working for a joinery firm and Lauren has been working in a bank.

'What it's shown us is that they both have a passion for it. They really wanted to start working here, but it means they also know a little bit about what else is out there,' he said.

While the siblings' new full-time roles will make sure the Skinner presence in Brandon for the future, it hasn't been their first exposure to the job.

Both have been helping out when needed, with Sam working with his father to prepare coffins since the age of four.

Mr Skinner said their recruitment would sustain a family business that dates back to the end of the First World War.

'My grandfather was a local undertaker in the 1920s, so it was an extremely proud day for us when Sam and Lauren joined.

'It has always been a family business, with extended family having pivotal roles over the years, plus my wife Laine has worked here for the last 12 years.

'Hopefully them joining will ensure the business can carry on and remain independent,' he said.

The business also has an office in Thetford.

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