Hearse, Harley or a carriage made of wax? Why funeral transport doesn’t have to be one size fits all…

Hearse, Harley or a carriage made of wax? Why funeral transport doesn’t have to be one size fits all…

It’s coming up to one year since HRH Prince Philip made his final journey in a modified Land Rover hearse, which he designed himself and had been modifying for over two decades for the occasion.

But personalised hearses aren’t a modern invention. In fact, the idea of planning for your funeral and ensuring that it’s reflective of your life, passions and achievements, has been evidenced throughout history. Henry VIII for example, had three hearses that were 14 feet tall and pulled by eight horses each! Not only that, but the hearses were made from over two tonnes of wax, which was common practice for royalty due to it being faster and easier to mould and carve.

Bespoke and personalised funerals aren’t just for royalty, however. In fact, more and more people are taking the opportunity to honour a life well lived by choosing a service that reflects their passions in life, and that includes classic cars.

Co-op Funeralcare shared with us some examples of how their clients have personalised their funerals with unique hearses, or classics as part of the ceremony:

• Not quite the bespoke build that HRH Prince Philip had at his funeral, however for those who have a life-long passion for Land Rovers, there is such a thing as a Land Rover hearse!

• A penchant for motorbikes has led many to opt to take a last ride in a classic Harley hearse complete with sidecar of course…

• Co-op Funeralcare has even arranged funerals using a hearse based on the famous Del and Rodney Robin Reliant van from Only Fools and Horses for a unique funeral cortege…

If you’re a classic car lover, then why not take your final ride in style, all the way to the big, chequered flag in the sky? Carry your coffin in the car that reflects your lifelong passion or follow behind in the classic that’s meant so much to you and your loved ones.

Co-op Funeralcare will make your funeral plans personal, every step of the way. Offering everything from Horse drawn-carriages to motorcycles to milk floats, Co-op Funeralcare can work with third parties to source different vehicles to transport the coffin, working with you to plan the perfect ceremony for you or your loved ones.

For advice or more information, you can speak to your local Co-op Funeral Director or click here to find out more.