THE absence of normal rituals to say goodbye to loved ones can have a profound impact on the grieving process.

The latest funeral guidance aims to balance the needs of the bereaved to mourn while limiting the spread of coronavirus.

At the Daily Echo we understand how hard it is for families to grieve and to share the life of a lost loved one with family and friends while observing social distancing guidelines.

If you lose someone you care about during this time, you may be unable to attend their funeral or have to watch it via webcast. It is often impossible to remember and celebrate their life in the way you would like to.

Many families are waiting to hold larger gatherings once restrictions have passed.

In the Daily Echo, we are publishing an Obituaries page in paper and online every Monday to give families who have placed an announcement with us the chance to celebrate the life of someone they have lost.

And while it's not the same as being together, giving a hug or sharing a drink, an obituary will give your lost loved one the recognition they deserve and reach your wider friends and family.

So please, if you would like us to write an obituary for someone you cared about, please follow the link to our obituaries section on our website at dailyecho.co.uk/obituary-tribute

Alternatively, call me on 023 8042 4711 or email me at lorelei.reddin@dailyecho.co.uk