A BUSINESS which has remained in the same family for more than 90 years will continue that tradition into a fourth generation.

While the town has changed dramatically over the decades, Hillier’s Funeral Directors has remained a constant in Swindon, providing a source of comfort for thousands of families.

It remains one of the only businesses in Swindon to have remained in the hands of one family and with Rebecca Hillier, the great-granddaughter of founder Harold, now joining, the future looks secure for many more years.

Founded in 1923, the company has been passed down through the Hillier family and Harold’s son Michael says it is a relief that it will now continue.

The 87-year-old said: “It is nice to know that we can remain a family company and do not have to sell it on.

“We are one of the oldest family-run companies in Swindon and it’s nice that when I pass on I know that will still be the case.”

Before moving to Hillier’s, Rebecca, 26, worked at Nationwide for a number of years before she decided to make the move into the family trade in September.

She said: “It was always something I had thought about at the back of my mind but I didn’t start straight away.

“I really like the service the family offers and has always done.

“Each of us has brought something new to the business but throughout there have been the same values that we all share as a family.

“Granddad brought something to the business when he started, my dad brought something different and I will bring something else.

“It means we have been able to move with the times.”

Having originally worked as a builder, Harold opened Hillier’s following a decline in the construction industry on the advice of his cousin.

Although always located on Whitworth Road, an office was later opened on Victoria Road so they could be more central.

An extension to the Chapel of Rest was recently completed as the business continues to grow.

Hillier’s is currently run by Rebecca’s dad Mark, 58, who is also pleased the future of the business is now secure.

“I want to retire one day so it is great I will be able to pass it on to someone within the family,” he said.

“We have provided services for the same families over several generations so maybe that will continue.”