A GUISELEY firm has become only the second funeral service in the country to offer a state-of-the-art electric hearse as an alternative to traditional funeral vehicles.

Full Circle Funerals has acquired an eco-hearse, which is based on a specially-adapted Nissan Leaf - one of the most successful electric cars.

The hearse has a 100 mile range, fast charging capability and is an alternative to a mainstream hearse.

Sarah Jones, founder of Full Circle Funerals, said: "The vehicle is silent, very dignified and environmentally friendly.

"It also has a much softer, less formal appearance than a traditional hearse which is proving to be popular with our clients, and approximately half are currently choosing it over a traditional hearse.

She added: “Having the option of creating a more bespoke funeral can significantly improve the grieving process.

"Giving people a choice when it comes to the hearse that their loved one makes their final journey in, is a key part of this.

"It’s an alternative option and another way for a person to leave a legacy, minimise their carbon footprint and convey what might have been important to them, at such a reflective time.”

The firm is based at Otley Road and opened in September last year.