Bauhaus urns and Scrabble-themed coffins: UK embraces new funeral trends

Shift reflects change in how people are talking and thinking about death amid climate crisis and increasing secularism

David Bowie was ahead of his time when he said he would like his death to be as interesting as his life - now, a raft of funeral directors and undertakers are shifting the dial on what the end of life can look like.

The most tangible differences are the products on offer. Choices range from coffins made of weatherbeaten willow, banana leaf and wool to bespoke Scrabble- or piano-themed ones, or a Bauhaus-inflected urn in lapis lazuli-blue. As for methods of transport, coffins are being carried in converted electric Nissans or VW camper vans. Motorcycle hearses are also available.