About Atholl Finlayson

Atholl Finlayson

I am an accredited celebrant living in Andover providing funerals in the Hampshire and Wiltshire areas (and I’m happy to travel further afield).

 

I worked for twenty five years as a solicitor, principally as a defence advocate in courts before joining the Army as a legal officer. I retired from military service to train to become accredited as a celebrant. I was inspired to do this because I wanted to ensure that families and friends had the opportunity to remember loved ones in a meaningful and personal way. Above all, while an individual’s death is inevitably sad, I think life should be celebrated, where good and happy times can be remembered. That story, unique to the individual, is what I try to convey in my ceremonies.

 

I believe that, because we only have this one life, we should live life to the full according to moral and ethical principles, helping others along the way in so far as we are able. Being a celebrant gives me a wonderful opportunity to use the skills I have gained in my working life to help non-religious people mark the important milestones in their lives.

 

I am part of a local group of celebrants who support each other and are able to provide a reliable and professional service. Between us we ensure that there is always a Humanist celebrant available to conduct ceremonies for families in this area. On the right you will find my contact details and links to some of my colleagues’ websites.