Families devastated by the Legacy funeral scandal have reacted with outrage after learning that disgraced Hull undertaker Robert Bush has applied to appeal against his 20-year prison sentence.
Bush, 48, was jailed in July 2026 at Hull Crown Court after admitting to a series of horrific offences, including keeping 30 bodies after their funerals, giving families the ashes of strangers, and selling fake funeral plans. He pleaded guilty to 67 separate offences.
Victims Speak Out
Natalie Smith, whose grandfather Norman Bridger was one of 35 bodies found by police at Legacy Independent Funeral Directors in Hull in March 2024, said the appeal application was an "insult." Her family had held a funeral and said their goodbyes, only to discover later that Mr Bridger had been in Bush's unrefrigerated premises for 11 months.
Smith said she was not surprised Bush wanted to appeal but described it as "unfair" that he could launch an appeal while Proceeds of Crime proceedings attempting to confiscate the profits of his crimes were still ongoing.
Jasmine Beverley, whose premature son Sunny Beverley-Conlin was found in a paper bag on the floor of Bush's parlour two years after his death, said she was "troubled" that victims may have to "relive the hurt they have already experienced" with a further appeal hearing.
Tristan Essex, whose grandmother Jessie Stockdale was one of the 35 bodies discovered, said he was "absolutely disgusted" by the appeal, adding that it added "cruelty to our suffering."
Police and Court Response
Humberside Police confirmed it had been notified by the Criminal Appeal Office at the Royal Courts of Justice and stated that "any decision regarding the appeal will be a matter for the courts."
In August, Bush wrote to families impacted by his crimes to express regret and say he was "deeply sorry."
Prosecutors described Bush's funeral business on Hessle Road in Hull as "shambolic and chaotic," and said his "appalling" offending had caused "extreme emotional pain, anguish and upset." His crimes spanned a 12-year period and involved more than 300 victims.
Bush will find out at a later date whether his application will be heard in the Court of Appeal.
