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Undertaker's Appeal Angers Victims
11 Nov
Summary
- Undertaker Robert Bush appeals 20-year sentence for fraud.
- Victims express anger over the appeal, citing ongoing pain.
- Crimes involved mishandling 30 bodies and selling fake plans.
Hull undertaker Robert Bush, aged 48, has applied to appeal his 20-year prison sentence, handed down in July 2026. Bush pleaded guilty to 67 offenses, including retaining 30 bodies after their funerals and selling fraudulent funeral plans. Prosecutors described his funeral business as "shambolic and chaotic," causing "extreme emotional pain" to over 300 victims across a 12-year period.
Families of the victims have voiced strong opposition to Bush's appeal. Natalie Smith, whose grandfather was among 35 bodies found at Legacy Independent Funeral Directors, called the appeal "unfair" as it proceeds while confiscation of profits is still underway. Tristan Essex, whose grandmother's body was discovered, stated the appeal adds "cruelty to our suffering." Jasmine Beverley expressed concern that victims may have to "relive the hurt they have already experienced."
Bush had previously sent letters to affected families in August, expressing his regret and deep apologies. The Criminal Appeal Office has been notified of his application, and a decision on whether the appeal will be heard will be made by the courts.
