About the Author

The author of Cooking for One is Rosedale Funeral Home’s Director, Simon Beckett-Allen.

Simon was inspired to create the book in memory of his late sister Sarah who passed away in 2015.

It features a wide range of recipes mixing simple dishes for those who may not be used to finding their way around a kitchen, wholesome and nutritious recipes, and some decadent dishes too.

Stories and recipes for Cooking for One have been submitted from a host of contributors who have all been bereaved.

Cooking for One is available to purchase from bookshops, independent stores, our local producers and partners and our seven funeral homes. You can also purchase a copy online by clicking here.

Simon was born and raised in Old Catton and now lives in Scole, near Diss, with his wife, Anne, two of his three children, and their accompanying horses, dogs and cats.

Shortly after Simon’s sister, Sarah, died in 2015, he lost his father, Philip, and his younger brother, Phil. He is no stranger to grief.

Before entering the funeral profession, Simon worked as a milkman, taxi driver, and electrician, as well as spending time as a driver for the Royal Air Force and in the kitchen on oil rigs, working two weeks on and two weeks off.

Simon is a Director of Rosedale Funeral Home. As well as carrying out his role of Funeral Conductor, he has been responsible for refurbishing each of the funeral homes to an extremely high standard, ensuring a homely and comfortable environment for families to make funeral arrangements. His eye for detail extends to his care of the company fleet.

Simon also takes a keen interest in the induction of new staff, ensuring that everyone is aligned with the Rosedale values and exceptional standards.

Outside of work, as well as being a motorcyclist and private pilot, Simon is currently building an RV12 light aircraft and learning to carriage drive with Charlie, a ten year-old, 11-hand, Welsh section A pony.