FUNERAL homes in Bristol, Devon and Somerset, including one in Clevedon, are introducing all-electric vehicles following nearly £600,000 investment from Co-op Funeralcare in the region.

The company aims to provide more environmentally-friendly travel options for families bidding farewell to their loved ones.

This move is part of Co-op’s broader intention to be net zero across their entire business by 2040. 

Five electric vehicles are due to be rolled out across the region's care centres, each saving around one and a half tonnes of CO2 compared to their hybrid predecessors.

Electric charging points are also set to be installed.

Mike Pengelly, head of South Client Operations at Co-op Funeralcare, said: "Funerals are changing, and we know how important it is to our member owners and clients that we explore more sustainable options and elements of the service for when they come to us to arrange their loved one’s funeral.

"This is also a significant investment for us, and a key step in our ambition to replace our full fleet of vehicles with fully electric alternatives by 2035, alongside our priority to be net zero across our entire business by 2040."

This implementation is part of the company's £9m UK-wide investment.