A WIDOW is urging people to put their plans in order before their death in a bid to save their families from heartache.

Helen, of Padgate, met her husband, Christopher, 20 years ago. Both had been married before and had children from their first marriages.

Four years ago, Christopher had an accident which left him brain damaged. His family from his first marriage was very supportive and Helen welcomed the extra help.

Then tragedy struck a second time when Christopher was diagnosed as having cancer.

But when he was discharged from hospital, his ex-wife took him to her home and though Helen still saw her husband until his death, despite being his next of kin she was stopped from taking any part in the funeral and does not know where his ashes have been scattered.

"In these days of second marriages," she said, "I would like to share my experiences.

"After death the body becomes part of the estate, something like a piece of meat or an old sideboard.

"Take a little time to stop and think of what you want at your funeral, don't just leave one side to decide what happens to you. Talk to your loved ones, write down your wishes, dot your 'i's and cross your 't's, and sign everything.

"All of these are more important to the one who has to say goodbye than any will concerning money."

The names in this story have been changed to protect the people concerned.