Downing portfolio company Lighthouse Funerals expands with seven more branches

4/3/26
5 min
Private Equity
News

Founders Anne Beckett-Allen and husband Simon, who established the firm in 2004, have chosen to partner with Lighthouse Funerals as it continues to build a national network of funeral directors.

Rosedale Funeral Home has served families across Norfolk and Suffolk for twenty years and is built on strong, experienced foundations. The business is renowned for its outstanding work within the local community and their commitment to compassionate, personal care aligns perfectly with Lighthouse Funerals.

Downing set up Lighthouse Funerals in October 2024, which has grown strategically to now include 20 funeral directors and a separate masonry business.

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Lighthouse Funerals, a funeral director platform established by investment manager Downing’s Private Equity team, has continued to expand with the acquisition of Rosedale Funeral Home, which operates seven branches across Norfolk and Suffolk.

Founders Anne Beckett-Allen and husband Simon, who established the firm in 2004, have chosen to partner with Lighthouse Funerals as it continues to build a national network of funeral directors.

Rosedale Funeral Home has served families across Norfolk and Suffolk for twenty years and is built on strong, experienced foundations. The business is renowned for its outstanding work within the local community and their commitment to compassionate, personal care aligns perfectly with Lighthouse Funerals.

Downing set up Lighthouse Funerals in October 2024, which has grown strategically to now include 20 funeral directors and a separate masonry business.

We are delighted to announce that Mark Gross, Partner and Head of Development Capital, has been named Equity Investor of the year at the HealthInvestor Power List 2024 Awards.

Following Mark’s achievement last year when he won the “Leading Investor” award at HealthInvestor’s Power50, this year’s win further highlights his continued success and expertise in investing across the healthcare sector. 

The judges praised Mark for finding success both in value and volume this year, delivering good returns and growth. They were impressed by how Mark has continued to strengthen a strong track record with further growth in the team and new funds securing further backing. We extend our thanks to Mark and the Downing Development Capital team for their continued dedication and support in expanding our healthcare investment activities with a focus on quality, performance and reputation. 

Congratulations Mark!

Development Capital  

Downing Development Capital is an award-winning investor focused on investment opportunities into asset-backed operating businesses with downside protection. Typical sectors they invest in include healthcare, specialist education, hospitality, leisure and IT infrastructure.

Learn more about our Development Capital team

Lighthouse Funerals, a funeral director platform established by investment manager Downing’s Private Equity team, has continued to expand with the acquisition of Rosedale Funeral Home, which operates seven branches across Norfolk and Suffolk.

Founders Anne Beckett-Allen and husband Simon, who established the firm in 2004, have chosen to partner with Lighthouse Funerals as it continues to build a national network of funeral directors.

Rosedale Funeral Home has served families across Norfolk and Suffolk for twenty years and is built on strong, experienced foundations. The business is renowned for its outstanding work within the local community and their commitment to compassionate, personal care aligns perfectly with Lighthouse Funerals.

Downing set up Lighthouse Funerals in October 2024, which has grown strategically to now include 20 funeral directors and a separate masonry business.

Downing portfolio company Lighthouse Funerals expands with seven more branches
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Ed Motley, Investment Director at Downing, said: “This acquisition reflects our commitment to backing Lighthouse to acquire high‑quality, community‑focused funeral businesses. We’re excited to support the team as the platform continues to scale.”
Steven Wilton, CEO of Lighthouse Funerals, said: “I am excited that such a high-quality business has joined our group and I am grateful to Anne and Simon for placing their trust in me. I very much look forward to working together as we navigate the ever-changing landscape of the funeral profession.”

Torsten Mack, Investment Director at Downing, said:

"We are proud to support this exceptional management team, whose strong track record positions them well to build a new business in dementia care. This needs-based sector is underpinned by a lack of quality supply and we are investing in Fortava Healthcare to set and deliver high standards, and to help make a difference."

Johann van Zyl, CEO at Fortava, added:

"I’m thrilled to be working with Jamie, as we share the same values. We plan to grow Fortava into a leading provider of dementia care over the next five to seven years. But growth isn’t our primary focus—our goal is to deliver outstanding care and foster a joyful, supportive environment for both residents and staff. We’re delighted to be partnering with Downing who also share our values and we look forward to this journey with them."

Jamie Stuart, CFO at Fortava, commented:

“For me, it's about being more than just another care home provider. While dementia care in the UK is generally of a good standard, we want to set ourselves apart with a fresh approach. That’s why, after over 25 years in banking, I chose to partner with Johann and Downing on this venture.”

The Downing Deal Teamcomprised Ed Motley, Investment Director, and Taylor Francis, InvestmentManager. Lighthouse was advised by Trethowans, Hazlewoods and Pinders.

About Downing

Downing's award-winning Private Equity team partners with exceptional management teams to help realise their growth ambitions and maximise the potential of their business by providing flexible funding solutions, strategic support, and access to its networks.

Typically, Downing looks for initial investments of between £5 million and £50 million and focuses on sectors including healthcare, education, housing, and other specialist sectors.

Downing integrates analysis of sustainability factors into its investment decision-making and supports companies to achieve positive outcomes in corporate governance, natural capital and societal factors.

Find out more information about the Downing Private Equity team.

Founders Anne Beckett-Allen and husband Simon, who established the firm in 2004, have chosen to partner with Lighthouse Funerals as it continues to build a national network of funeral directors.

Rosedale Funeral Home has served families across Norfolk and Suffolk for twenty years and is built on strong, experienced foundations. The business is renowned for its outstanding work within the local community and their commitment to compassionate, personal care aligns perfectly with Lighthouse Funerals.

Downing set up Lighthouse Funerals in October 2024, which has grown strategically to now include 20 funeral directors and a separate masonry business.

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