Funeral Director and Managing Director/Owner
MBIE, MBIFD, MIFDC, Dip FD.

Vicki’s working life began in true Yorkshire fashion—as a Saturday girl at Woolworths in Skipton, stacking shelves and learning how to handle customers (and chaos) with a smile. From there, she moved into office work as a junior and audio typist at a local solicitor’s, then into retail, where she worked as a receptionist at Hillard’s (which later became Tesco). She eventually rose to Chief Cashier at the Ilkley store—proof that she could handle money, people, and the daily till balancing act without losing her mind (or her pen).

At 27, everything changed when her dad, Roger, asked if she fancied joining the family funeral business. It was a big decision—but one she’s never regretted. She qualified as a Funeral Director in 1996 and as an embalmer in 1999, bringing both professional skill and personal care to every aspect of her role. Since then, she’s found her true calling in supporting families through some of their most difficult times, always with compassion, empathy, and the occasional well-timed bit of humour when it’s needed most.

Vicki has been lucky enough to work alongside three generations of her family—her grandfather Jack, great-uncle Geoffrey, and of course her dad—learning the values and heart of the business before they retired. These days, she works alongside her niece, Lucy, and finds real joy in continuing the family legacy.

She lives in Skipton with her husband, Craig, where between them they have four brilliant children—Natalie, Sophie, Rosie, and Donnabhan—and three adorable grandchildren: Lottie, Thomas, and Edwin. Life is loud, busy, and full of laughter—and she wouldn’t have it any other way.

When she’s not at work, Vicki can usually be found outdoors—running, cycling, walking her two dogs, Toby and Autumn, or heading off on holiday in search of sunshine and good food. She loves cooking, catching up with friends and family, and winding down with a good book (preferably with a cup of tea and the dogs snoring nearby).

Charity work has always been close to her heart. She’s cycled in China, Vietnam, Cambodia, Panama, Tanzania, Madagascar—and even tackled the classic John O’Groats to Land’s End route—raising funds for the Genesis Research Trust. She’s also run the London and Edinburgh marathons, the Leeds Marathon, and completed the Great North Run more times than she can count (but definitely more than ten), supporting causes including the MS Society, Anthony Nolan, Sue Ryder, and MNDA.

It’s been quite the journey—but through it all, Vicki has stayed grounded, grateful, and ready for whatever comes next—usually with muddy trainers, a full calendar, and a smile.

Funeral Director
MBIFD, MIFDC, Dip FD.

Nigel began his career with North Yorkshire Police, where he spent a decade working in both the control room and on the front desk. It was here that he honed the art of calm communication and clear thinking under pressure—skills that would later prove invaluable in his chosen vocation.

In 1998, Nigel made a meaningful career change when he was invited by Vicki to join Howcrofts Funeral Services as a trainee Funeral Director. Embracing the opportunity, he trained at Howarths’ Funeral School in Bolton and qualified with a Diploma in Funeral Directing in 2000.

With over 25 years in the funeral profession, Nigel has developed deep expertise across all aspects of funeral care. He is widely respected for his warmth, compassion, and down-to-earth approach, with a gentle sense of humour that brings comfort during difficult times.

Nigel lives in Embsay with his wife Nicola and their much-loved dog, Betsy. He’s a proud father to two grown-up daughters, Megan and Eve. Outside of work, he enjoys walking in the countryside, gardening, listening to his favourite 80s music—and never says no to a good cup of tea. He also prioritises keeping fit as part of his daily routine.

Nigel continues to bring kindness, wisdom, and quiet strength to every family he supports.

Funeral Director
MBIFD, MIFDC, Dip FD.

Philip has been a valued member of the Howcrofts Funeral Services team since the late 1990s, bringing with him a calm, compassionate presence and a deep commitment to helping families in their time of need. Before joining the funeral profession, Philip worked for many years at Johnson & Johnson, where he developed the strong work ethic he is still known for today.

Initially joining Howcrofts as a pallbearer and driver, Philip went on to qualify as a Funeral Director in 2002. Since then, he has supported countless families across Skipton and the surrounding areas with care, dignity, and professionalism.

Philip has been married to his wife, Jill, for 48 years. Together they have twin sons, Philip and Mark. A lifelong animal lover—especially dogs—Philip has always shared his home with beloved four-legged companions. In his spare time, he enjoys holidays in Devon and on the South Coast with Jill and their three dogs: Trigger, Jack, and Sam.

Known for his reliability, kindness, and steady presence, Philip is a true pillar of the Howcrofts team.

Funeral Director
MIFDC, MBIFD, Dip FS, Cert FS.

Funeral Director
MIFDC, MBIFD, Dip FD, Cert FS.

Craig’s career has taken a varied and (mostly) sensible path. After leaving school, he began a five-year engineering apprenticeship — learning everything from precision tools to how not to spill tea on technical drawings. That led to a successful run in management and leadership, where he eventually became a director of several engineering companies and launched his own consultancy, Optimum Quality Management. His mission? Helping businesses improve systems, safety, and standards — ideally without too many spreadsheets.

Never one to shy away from a challenge (or a dramatic career change), Craig decided to swap boardrooms for fire engines and joined Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service as a firefighter. After several years on the front line — and more ladders than most people climb in a lifetime — he returned to his engineering roots, bringing with him calm under pressure, plenty of stories, and a seriously impressive set of multitasking skills.

In 2024, Craig took another meaningful leap and joined Howcrofts Funeral Services as a qualified Funeral Director, he’s passionate about offering practical support and genuine compassion to families when they need it most. He approaches his new role with humility, care, and a down-to-earth attitude that puts people at ease.

Originally from Earby, Craig moved to Skipton after meeting his wife, Vicki — a decision he’s never regretted (except maybe when navigating Skipton traffic on market day). With the Dales on his doorstep, it’s a perfect base for his many hobbies.

In his spare time, Craig enjoys cycling, travelling, spending quality time with family, and making noise with his trumpet — his main musical instrument (and one his neighbours are now very familiar with). He also dabbles in other instruments and brews his own beer — with varying levels of success and fizz.

Funeral Director
MIFDC, Cert FP, FAA.

Michael’s career started under the bonnet—literally. After leaving school, he completed a five-year apprenticeship in motor vehicle engineering, gaining strong technical skills, a love of problem-solving, and an enduring ability to find spanners that mysteriously disappear right when you need them.

After qualifying, he decided to take a gap year and headed to Bodrum, Turkey, where he lived and worked for several months. It was an eye-opening experience that broadened his outlook—and confirmed that sunshine, good food, and a slower pace of life definitely have their place.

On returning to the UK, Michael hit the road—spending the next 23 years as a long-distance lorry driver. It was a role that demanded professionalism, precision, and endless patience (especially on the M62). It also gave him time to perfect his playlist and learn the fine art of finding the best roadside bacon butty.

In search of a new challenge and more people-facing work, Michael transitioned into an office-based role and completed a Level 3 qualification in Business Administration. Then in November 2024, he made a big career change—joining Howcrofts as a trainee Funeral Director. He’s now studying for his diploma in Funeral Directing and finding real purpose in helping families with compassion and quiet support during difficult times.

Michael lives in Skipton with his wife, Sarah, and their cat, Millie—who is absolutely in charge and makes no secret of it. Outside of work, he enjoys mountain biking (mostly downhill, if he’s honest) and escaping in the touring caravan for weekends away—ideally somewhere with decent weather, a good pub, and no mobile signal.

Funeral Director
MBIE, MBIFD, MIFDC, Dip FD.

David Lawson joins the Howcrofts team with a lifelong connection to the funeral profession.

His great-grandfather, William Lawson, was a cabinet maker and funeral director whose business was based on Water Street. The Lawson family business was later continued by his sons, who worked closely alongside members of the Howcroft family, building a long-standing professional relationship between the two families.

Although David was young when his own family firm closed, those early influences stayed with him. Inspired by his great-grandfather’s work and values, he entered the funeral profession at just 17 years old, beginning his career as a funeral director. Over the years, he has gained extensive experience across several funeral homes and is now a fully qualified funeral director and embalmer.

David has also previously run his own funeral business, but joining Howcrofts represents a natural return to shared family roots and long-standing connections within the profession.

Based in Skipton, David continues to support families across the surrounding areas, offering compassionate, experienced care when it is needed most.

Pallbearer & Driver

David lives in Embsay with his wife, Linda, to whom he’s been happily married for over 50 years — though he often says she deserves a long-service award for putting up with him. They have two grown daughters and are proud grandparents to four grandchildren who keep them smiling.

Before joining Howcrofts, David spent six years in the motor trade, followed by an incredible 36 years as an ambulance technician — a role that shaped his calm, caring approach and taught him that a good sense of humour (and a strong flask of tea) can go a long way in a crisis.

He joined the Howcrofts team in 2013 as a pallbearer and driver, bringing with him a wealth of experience and a steady, reassuring presence that families truly appreciate. Whether behind the wheel or quietly supporting a service, David brings dignity, professionalism, and genuine care to everything he does.

A lifelong classic car enthusiast, David can often be found polishing something with four wheels — or out on the road with Linda in their caravan or motorhome, exploring the country one scenic stop (and one well-earned ice cream) at a time.

Pallbearer and driver

Karen grew up in the picturesque village of Kettlewell and now lives in Skipton with her partner. She has two grown-up children and became part of the Howcrofts Funeral Services team in 2021, working as a pallbearer. Her gentle nature, professionalism, and empathy have made her a comforting presence to many of the families we support.

In addition to her role at Howcrofts, Karen is a fully qualified Integrative Counsellor and Psychotherapist and a registered member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (MBACP). She supports individuals through a wide range of emotional challenges, helping them to better understand the experiences that shape them and to move toward healing, growth, and self-awareness.

Bereavement counselling is especially close to Karen’s heart. She offers a safe, non-judgemental space where individuals can explore their grief and begin to find a way of living alongside it—without being consumed by it.

Outside of work, Karen enjoys walking in the Yorkshire Dales with her two dogs, spending time with her family, and embracing the peace that nature offers. She has a keen interest in mindfulness and wellbeing, which also influences her therapeutic approach.

Counselling Contact Details:

Pallbearer & Driver

Lucas lives in Gargrave with his wife, Kathryn, with whom he has shared over 25 wonderful years. Before joining Howcrofts Funeral Services, Lucas spent nearly four decades working as a Global Design Manager—a career marked by creativity, leadership, and attention to detail.

Alongside his professional life, Lucas has always had a deep passion for sport and the outdoors. An accomplished endurance athlete, he has completed numerous ultramarathons and triathlons. He regularly leads outdoor cycling groups and teaches indoor spin classes an impressive seven times a week—making him very much our own “action man.”

Lucas joined Howcrofts in 2025 as a pallbearer and driver, bringing with him not only physical strength and reliability but also a calm, grounded presence that families appreciate.

Recently, he completed a week of walking and cycling in Switzerland and is preparing to lead a cycling group in Majorca later this year. His energy and enthusiasm are infectious, and we’re proud to have him as part of the team.