CLERGYMEN and funeral directors have welcomed a hi-tech scheme to broadcast Scunthorpe funerals to mourners on the internet.

North Lincolnshire Council's innovative service will allow grieving ex-pats to log in anywhere in the world and watch the funeral of their loved one live online.

The £30-a-time service is ready to go live at Woodlands Crematorium in Brumby Wood Lane.

Jason Threadgold, funeral director with J Naylor Funeral Directors on Laneham Street, said: "It's definitely a good idea. It's not always possible for people to come from foreign countries to go to funerals at short notice. I think it's a very good idea."

The Rev Cameron Martin, of St Peter's Church, at Bottesford, was similarly enthusiastic about the initiative which he believes will bring comfort to mourners.

"I think it's a super idea. I think it's a wonderful idea. I think it's a way family and friends can engage with the service," he said.

And Methodist minister, the Rev Lyn Gregg, said: "I think, once we get over the shock and get used to it, it will be alright."

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