Since 1 July, 1837, the recording of deaths in England and Wales is similar to that for births.

The death certificate will tell you the:

• Date and place of death
• Name, sex and occupation of the deceased,
• Cause of death
• Informant's name and address.

Since 1 April, 1969, the date and place of birth of the deceased, the usual address and the maiden name in the case of a married woman, are also given. Until 1874, entering the cause of death was not a legal requirement and registrars were encouraged to use popular, rather than medical terminology.