Upset at Street funeral filming

The Street: Alma is leaving after more than 11 years

Bereaved relatives from two families have complained after they were told they could not use a crematorium because it was being used to film scenes for Coronation Street.

Agecroft Cemetery in Salford, Greater Manchester, was hired by Granada TV on Tuesday to record the funeral of Alma Halliwell.

Alma (Amanda Barrie) dies of cancer

The character, played by Amanda Barrie, dies of cervical cancer after a hospital smear test blunder and a missed appointment.

Both families complained that the TV company was allowed to take over the crematorium for the day.

They were offered alternative venues for the cremations of two male relatives who were also cancer victims.

Salford Council said there had been a long-standing agreement with Coronation Street to allow filming on Tuesday.

"We deeply regret that we have been unable to fulfil requests from bereaved relatives for two cremations." said Bruce Jassi, director of environmental services.

"We offer our sincere apologies for any upset which may have been caused to grieving relatives."

A council spokeswoman said that no cremations had to be cancelled because of the filming and all funeral directors had been informed two weeks ago.

Granada TV said the crematorium had been booked six weeks ago for the filming of Alma's funeral.

A spokeswoman said: "In the past we have always used crematoriums and chapels for filming funerals. We always like to use the real thing.

"We took guidance from the crematorium about the best time for it to take place.

"It was never our intention to cause any distress or upset to anyone who may be affected."