IT might not appear to be the most glamorous of jobs, but funeral services from across the county have been getting the recognition they deserve thanks to a national award.

One of those lucky enough to be shortlisted for this year's Good Funeral Awards is Banbury-based Edd Frost & Daughters, which has been organising services in the town for three years.

This year the company has been nominated for the Most Promising New Funeral Director prize after being recommended by customers.

Director Edd Frost said he was inspired to set up the company after the sudden death of his mother and father in the space of four years.

The 42-year-old said: "I have experienced bereavement personally before.

"I had moved away to Birmingham but I realised that the job is about serving the area that you grew up in, and for most of my life I have lived around Banbury.

"It was really tough getting started from scratch in a town that is already well established with funeral businesses.

"We have tried to provide a very one-on-one and personal service and it is great that someone has nominated us for it."

Both his parents died before he turned 30, something Mr Frost admitted was a "life-changing experience."

He added: "It made me want to work with people who had experienced what I had.

"It's very important to give that personal touch.

"I have been amazed by the support and kindness of people in the local area.

"We try to do a lot in the community and support local causes and charities ourselves so we get to know more people."

After starting the Horton View-based business by himself, Mr Frost now employs two other members of staff to help him out as well as several casual employees.

It is the first time he has been nominated for the awards.

The Adderbury resident said: "The awards were something that I was aware of but to be nominated was incredible.

"When you get contacted it is amazing to think that someone has taken the time to put a few good words in about our profession.

"I haven't really thought about winning it. We already feel like winners.

"It's just amazing how far we have come in such little time."

Also nominated for the same prized is C.S Boswell of Kidlington.

Owner Carl Boswell, 27, said: "As an independent business we do not have huge overheads and people appreciate how I am trying to make a difficult situation easier for them.

"The nomination makes it all worthwhile. As long as I can go home in the evening knowing that I have helped people then I'll be happy."

The awards ceremony will be held at Porchester Hall in London on September 8.