‘Celebrations of life’ increasingly replacing traditional funerals in UK, study shows

In the study by Co-op Funeralcare, 68% of people said funerals should be more of a celebration than a time of reflection – up from 58% in 2019. Photograph: Johnny Green/PA

Traditional sombre funerals in religious settings are increasingly being replaced by “celebrations of life” with personal touches held at more unusual locations in the UK, according to a study.

Dr Who-themed farewells, glittery coffins and mourners dressed in football shirts are among requests received by funeral directors.