Check out our latest magazine... Read Online

From A Greggs Sausage Roll To Dyson Hoover Box: Edinburgh Funeral Firm's Quirky Coffin Designs

Saturday, 3 June 2023 06:00

By (C) Sky News: Jenness Mitchell, Scotland reporter

Designs include a Dyson box, a Greggs sausage roll and Doctor Who's Tardis. Pic: Go As You Please

A funeral firm is hoping to "break the taboo" of talking about death by offering custom-made coffins, which includes a casket designed like a Greggs sausage roll.

Bosses at Go As You Please say no ideas are off limits to help make a difficult day a little lighter.

Suggested designs include the Doctor Who Tardis, a pint of Tennent's Lager and a bottle of Bell's whisky.

There's also Star Wars, Game of Thrones, The Walking Dead, Harry Potter and Only Fools and Horses designs to help spark ideas.

The firm - which has branches in the north-east of England and in Edinburgh in Scotland - said the coffins are built to the needs of each individual customer.

Scott Purvis, general manager at the company, told Sky News a Dyson box was created for someone who had a history of repairing old hoovers.

Another coffin was made from old pallets in tribute to a man who used scrap pieces of wood to create useful things for his shed.

Mr Purvis said:

"Most of our coffin designs come from having honest conversations with the person when they are still alive.

"A lot of people are now arranging their own funerals before they die. This gives them a chance to break the taboo of talking about death with their families.

"It also gives them the opportunity to have exactly the funeral they want and to take the burden off the family when the time comes."

Mr Purvis said the displays in branch windows are a conversation starter.

He added:

"[It] isn't out of disrespect but to show the public what can be done and what we can offer.

"When it comes to the bespoke picture coffins, I would say we're not dealing with novelty, we're dealing with individuality.

"We encourage families to design their own coffins and even get involved with making the coffins.

"We have had numerous families create photo montages of family photos through the years, bringing the family together to stick the photos onto the blank coffin."

More from Lifestyle

  • Five Most Pet-Friendly Destinations in the UK

    For pet lovers, leaving your furry friend behind when planning a trip can feel bittersweet. Fortunately, the UK offers plenty of destinations where your four-legged companion can join in on the adventure. From scenic countryside retreats to dog-friendly beaches and bustling cities with pet-friendly cafes, there’s something for everyone. Here are five of the most pet-friendly destinations in the UK, perfect for a getaway with your best friend:

  • Five UK Valentine's Destinations Perfect For A Night Away

    Whether you’re dreaming of candlelit dinners, cosy countryside retreats, or breath-taking city views, the UK offers a wealth of enchanting destinations to make your Valentine’s night unforgettable. Here are five perfect spots for a night of romance this February 14th:

  • Five Highly Romantic Meals Perfect for Your Valentine

    Valentine’s Day is the perfect occasion to indulge in delicious, romantic meals that set the mood for love and intimacy. Whether you're planning a home-cooked dinner or a special surprise for your significant other, choosing the right dishes can elevate the experience. Here are five highly romantic meals that are perfect for your Valentine:

  • Five Fantasy Worlds We'd Love to See Become Theme Parks

    Theme parks have long been the ultimate escape, transporting visitors to magical realms and immersive adventures. While franchises like Harry Potter and Star Wars have already found their way into our favourite amusement destinations, there are still many beloved fantasy worlds that remain untapped. Here are five incredible fantasy settings that deserve their own fully realized theme parks:

  • Five Most Romantic Valentine’s Gestures From Europe

    Valentine’s Day is celebrated across the globe, but Europe, with its rich history and romantic traditions, offers some of the most heartfelt and unique gestures of love. From poetic gifts to centuries-old customs, these European Valentine’s traditions prove that romance knows no bounds. Here are five of the most enchanting Valentine’s Day gestures from across Europe: