Crematoria to recycle metal hips

The metal implants will be returned to the family if requested

Crematoria in Somerset are to recycle metal pins and plates recovered from the bodies of people who are cremated.

At present, when a person who has had a piece of metal surgically implanted is cremated, the metal is removed from their ashes and buried.

But from next month, any items which do not melt will be recycled.

A council spokesman said: "Crematorium staff will seek the consent of the bereaved to sensitively recycle the metals rather than dispose of them."

He added: "The metals can be returned to the family if they wish."

Soft and precious metals such as jewellery cannot be recovered or recycled as they melt during the cremation process and are dispersed in the ashes.

The scheme is supported by the Health Service, Department for Environment, Farming and Rural Affairs and the Environment Agency.