The new furnaces cost �1.2m and took four years to build

A new furnace at Mintlyn Crematorium in Bawsey was installed on Saturday to accommodate 1m wide coffins.

The �1.2m project to replace three furnaces took four years. Two will be able to handle the wider coffins.

A King's Lynn and West Norfolk Council spokeswoman said: "Obesity problems mean that many older style cremators do not meet the requirements."

"Should the current obesity trend continue, then this will increasingly become a problem."

Tranquil setting

The furnaces are also designed to meet the government's environmental targets to reduce mercury.

Mercury is emitted into the atmosphere as a result of dental fillings going through the cremation process.

Cabinet member councillor David Harwood said: "Ours is the first crematorium in East Anglia to install equipment that tackles the issue of mercury emissions."

Improvements have also been made to the gardens to provide a peaceful and tranquil setting for quiet contemplation.

Mintlyn Crematorium was opened in 1980 and occupies a fifteen acre site near King's Lynn.