A 110-YEAR-OLD Cradley Heath funeral directors has beaten competition from firms across the UK to scoop an award - with part of its prize set to see new trees planted in Uffmoor Wood.

Trevor E W Hickton Ltd won the Innovative Business Strategy Award at this year’s Funeral Planner of the Year Awards.

The company is owned and managed by the third and fourth generation of the family, Trevor, Ross, Greg and Jodie Hickton - along with a 25-strong team of employees.

The awards ceremony, which was hosted by broadcaster Gyles Brandreth, took place in central London and highlighted the achievements of independent funeral directors.

Ross Hickton, Managing Director of Trevor E W Hickton Limited, said: “This is a fantastic achievement for our 110-year-old business.

"We would like to thank all our employees, suppliers and the local communities we serve and choose us, that made this possible.

"This award cements our dedication to ensuring local families are served and looked after by a local independent funeral business.”

The Woodland Trust has dedicated trees on behalf of Trevor E W Hickton, which are to be planted at Uffmoor Wood, in recognition of the company’s achievement.

Trevor E W Hickton Limited, started business in 1909 in Cradley Heath.

It now has branches in Halesowen, Bartley Green, Castle Bromwich and Wolverhampton (Edward John Funerals).

The awards are run by funeral plan provider Golden Charter.