# Jailed Funeral Director Robert Bush Appeals 20-Year Sentence for Malpractice Victims express renewed anguish as the former funeral boss challenges his lengthy prison term. - **Source:** [Daily Mirror](https://www.mirror.co.uk/news) - **Published:** 2026-11-11 - **Topic:** [politics](https://brifing.si/c/politics) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/500c7db5-7c03-4ad9-a676-ed3726831f89 ## Sentence Appeal Filed Robert Bush, the 48-year-old former head of Legacy Independent Funeral Directors, has officially applied to appeal his 20-year prison sentence. The Criminal Appeal Office at the Royal Courts of Justice notified Humberside Police of the application. This development follows his July 2026 sentencing for 67 criminal offences committed over 12 years. ## Scale of Criminality Bush pleaded guilty to charges including fraud, theft, and the prevention of a lawful burial. His actions impacted over 300 victims, involving the hoarding of 30 bodies and the distribution of incorrect ashes. Prosecutors described his Hull-based business operations as chaotic, noting he even sold fake funeral plans to unsuspecting, grieving families. ## Families Face Retraumatization The appeal has caused significant distress among victims who previously felt a sense of finality. Campaigners and affected relatives describe the move as an insult, noting that it forces them to relive their trauma. Many families, already suffering from PTSD and nightmares, feel the legal process is once again prioritizing the perpetrator. ## Specific Cases of Neglect Evidence revealed horrific conditions, such as a stillborn baby kept in a paper bag for two years. Another victim, Norman Bridger, remained in unrefrigerated premises for 11 months despite his family holding a funeral. Some relatives only confirmed their loved ones' identities through serial numbers found on medical devices like hearing aids. ## Contradictory Post-Sentencing Conduct Following his July sentencing, Bush issued a letter expressing deep regret for the distress caused by his actions. However, victims argue this apology is insincere given his current attempt to overturn his punishment. Critics suggest his decision to appeal demonstrates a lack of genuine remorse and a disregard for the families' suffering. ## Legal and Financial Context While Bush serves his sentence, separate Proceeds of Crime proceedings are ongoing to confiscate profits generated from his fraudulent activities. Victims have expressed frustration that he can pursue an appeal while these financial investigations remain unresolved. The Court of Appeal will decide at a later date whether to hear his application. ## Calls for Industry Reform The scandal has sparked urgent demands for stricter legislation within the funeral sector. Campaigners are currently circulating a petition to ensure better oversight and prevent future malpractice, such as the degrading storage of remains. They seek to ensure that no other family experiences the systemic betrayal and cruelty witnessed at Legacy. ## Uncertainty of Future Justice Victims remain concerned about the possibility of early release, noting that Bush could potentially be released on licence after serving ten years. This prospect, combined with the current appeal, leaves many feeling that the justice system is failing them. Families continue to push for permanent, meaningful changes to funeral industry regulations. ## Sources covering this story - [Daily Mirror — Funeral Director Robert Bush Appeals 20-Year Sentence for Malpractice](https://www.mirror.co.uk/news/uk-news/robert-bush-appeals-sentence-funeral-37867775) - [BBC News – England — Disgraced Undertaker Appeals 20-Year Prison Sentence](https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cjqlq3909e91o?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss) --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._