Right then, tell us who you are and what you’re known for around Pudsey.
(Bonus points if your name’s been shouted across Lidget Hill at some point.)
I’m James Crabtree, and I’ve been part of the Pudsey community all my life. People probably know me best for my involvement with Litter Free Pudsey, where I’ve spent a lot of time helping to keep the town clean and looked after. I also run the Pudsey Matters Facebook group, which brings people together to share updates, ask questions, and support one another.
Community means a lot to me, and I try to play an active part wherever I can.
What do you actually do?
(Be honest – we’ll find out from your family if you lie.)
I’m a Funeral Director, and I’ve recently opened my own business – Crabtree Family Funeral Directors. It’s something I’ve worked towards for many years. Being part of the Pudsey community gives me a real understanding of the people I serve, and I feel proud to offer a service that’s personal, respectful, and rooted in local values.
It’s a role that carries a lot of responsibility, and I treat it with the care and attention it deserves. Supporting families through loss is a privilege, and I don’t take that lightly.
How did you end up doing that? Was it fate, accident, or a drunken bet?
(We’re looking for sliding-doors moment meets pub story meets “next thing I knew I was in charge of the gazebo.”)
It started from the ground up. I began by washing hearses and limousines, helping out with services, and learning everything from the basics. Over time, I took on more responsibilities and gained experience in every part of the role.
I’ve always believed that starting at the bottom teaches you to appreciate every part of the work. It gave me a deep respect for the profession, and for the trust that families place in us. Setting up my own business was the natural next step – a way to offer the kind of care I believe people deserve, right here in my own community.
What do you love most about being part of the Pudsey community?
(Other than the bus drivers waving at each other.)
It’s the people. Pudsey has a strong sense of togetherness. Whether it’s volunteers giving up their weekends to clean up the town, neighbours checking in on one another, or local businesses supporting good causes – there’s a shared commitment to making this place better.
Being part of that makes me feel proud. I’ve met so many generous, thoughtful people through the groups I’m involved in, and it reminds me that we all have something to give. Pudsey is full of people who care – and that’s what makes it feel like home.
Tell us about something you’ve done that you’re proper proud of.
(Brag away. You’ve earned it.)
Starting Crabtree Family Funeral Directors is something I’ll always be proud of. It’s the result of years of learning, hard work, and listening to families. I wanted to create a service that truly puts people first – where every family is treated with care, dignity, and respect.
I’m also proud of the work I’ve done in the community. Whether it’s organising litter picks or helping manage local groups, I believe we all have a part to play in making Pudsey a better place. But more than anything, I’m proud of my family. They’ve supported me every step of the way and continue to be my biggest motivation.
What’s the best/weirdest/funniest thing that’s happened while doing what you do?
(Names can be changed to protect the daft.)
One of the things I hear often is how unusual people find my job. But for me, it’s never felt strange. It’s about being there for people when they need support the most. Every funeral is different, and every family deserves to feel cared for and listened to.
What stays with me most is the quiet gratitude people show – a kind word, a thank-you note, a sense of peace at the end of a difficult time. That means everything.
If Pudsey had a statue of you, what would you be holding?
(Bonus points if it’s a Greggs bag. Coldplay kiss cam incidents may also be considered.)
I think it would be a litter picker and a purple bin bag. That’s where a lot of my community involvement began, and it still matters to me.
Who else in Pudsey deserves a shoutout?
(This is where you nominate another local legend for us to interview.)
There are so many people who deserve recognition, but one person who really stands out is Rebecca Thresh. She puts so much energy and positivity into everything she does, and she makes a real difference in the community.
If someone’s never been to Pudsey, what’s the one thing they should do first?
(Answers involving pies or pints will be accepted.)
I’d say visit during Pudsey Carnival. It’s a day where you can really see the community come together – local groups, schools, businesses, and families all joining in. It brings out the best of what Pudsey is about and shows just how much pride people take in the town.
And finally, where can people find you, support your business, or get involved with what you do
(Plug away. It’s your spotlight.)
You can find my business page on Facebook – Crabtree Family Funeral Services – where I share updates and information.
I’m also involved in Litter Free Pudsey, which is a brilliant way for people to take part in looking after the town.
And if you want to keep up with what’s happening locally, or connect with others in the area, the Pudsey Matters Facebook group is a great place to start.
And with that, we’re off to Greggs
And there you have it – James Crabtree: funeral director, bin bag-wielding civic ninja, and the kind of bloke who’s probably been thanked more times than the bin men after Christmas.
From caring for families at their lowest moments to tackling stray crisp packets on Lidget Hill, James has a knack for showing up where it matters. Just don’t mention gazebos – some community scars run deep.
If you’ve ever muttered “who runs this town then?” while stuck behind a bus on Church Lane… it’s probably James. Or at least someone in a hi-vis he’s roped in.
Cheers, James – for keeping Pudsey tidy, grounded, and gently told off when needed.
