HIGHER-than-expected crematorium income has boosted savings made by Blackburn with Darwen’s environment department.

Finance chief Coun Andy Kay reported to fellow councillors that the department had spent £52,000 below its authorised budget.

He told councillors in a report that more money from crematorium fees and reduced wage costs were key reasons for the success.

Coun Kay added: “Effective management of the vehicle fleet led to the costs of running and repair vehicles being lower than originally estimated.”