FUNERAL directors have bought hybrid hearses after being inspired by environmental activist Greta Thunberg.

Bowley and Gallagher, based in Sussex, have bought a number of cars powered by electric motors so people’s final journeys can be “better for the planet”.

Funeral director Matthew Gallagher, who is based in Preston Park, Brighton, said they had been “incredibly impressed” by Greta Thunberg - who inspired the global climate strike protests by schoolchildren.

He said: “So when it came to replacing some of our vehicles this year we decided there was no alternative but to look at low emissions models. No one is making a traditional all-electric hearse or limousine as yet, but hybrid options are available, so it was a no-brainer.”

The cars are powered by an electric motor, backed up by a 2.0 litre petrol engine, which kicks in when the battery charge runs low. The directors are now urging other firms to reduce carbon emissions too.