THE cost of dying in Winchester is soaring - but it is still cheaper than many other places in Hampshire.

Burying a loved one looks set to increase by more than three times the rate of inflation.

City councillors recommended that cemetery charges increase by ten per cent from April 1.

It means the price of a single grave at one of the two council-run cemeteries, West Hill and Morn Hill, will increase from £506 to £557. A double grave will cost £699, up from £635.

Stephen Whetnall, the city secretary, said traditionally income from burial charges was low and that the increase was the only way to maintain the upkeep of the sites.

He said fees in Winchester were lower than other Hampshire districts and believed the rates were still very reasonable.

Councillor Barry Lipscomb, the Conservative member for Wonston and Micheldever, said he wanted it made clear the increases were being made to maintain high standards at the cemeteries.

Mr Lipscomb, said: "This is important. A lot of stress can be caused by overgrown cemeteries."

The cost of cemetery fees varies considerably across Hampshire: a single grave in Southampton is £700; Portsmouth, £539; Eastleigh, £690; New Forest, £498; Test Valley, £290; Gosport, £391; Fareham, £703, East Hampshire, £850.

Winchester, Southampton, Portsmouth, Eastleigh, New Forest, Fareham and Gosport charge double for non-residents. Test Valley and East Hampshire charge treble.

The council's main cemetery at Morn Hill has enough space for another 40-50 years, according to a report to the Central Services Performance Improvement Committee.

The council also owns a field next to it, which in the long-run could be used.

West Hill is rarely used for new burials except on family plots.