Funeral firm offers carriage

Aubrey Kirkham Funeral Directors, in Shrewsbury, hopes the service will give people the chance to make their final journey in style. Mr Kirkham said horse-drawn carriages were already popular in the south.

The funeral director, whose firm is based in Frankwell, said there had already been plenty of interest from people who wanted the black carriage to be used to carry their coffin.

He said: "It is a very traditional and dignified way for people to make their final journey.

"I think there are so many people in and around Shrewsbury who would like to have the horse drawn carriage for their funeral."

Mr Kirkham said that he came up with the idea after meeting businessman Mark Evans who said that he could provide the carriage and horses.

The two Belgian black horses, Sam and Ben, are experienced at pulling the carriage and Mr Kirkham said they had proven to be extremely popular with people.

"Their manners are impeccable and they are very friendly with people. They provide a lot of dignity for people who want something more than a regular hearse to take them to their funeral," he added.

The horses are decked out in full regalia including black head dresses, while the carriage drivers themselves dress in full black mourning suits.