Minor tweaks turn Morris into hearse

They have converted a Morris Minor Traveller into a hearse to offer a fitting final journey for fans of the iconic British motor.

The Morris Minor Hearse Company was set up by the couple, who live in Cannock, at the end of last year after they restored the Traveller so it can carry a coffin.

Calling their car Trudy – as its customary for Morris Minor's to be given a female name – it took Andrew two-and-a-half years to complete her transformation ready for their launch at last year's NEC Classic Car show.

The idea started after they restored another Morris Minor and started using it for weddings in 2000 – and it became so popular they restored another one so it could carry the bridesmaids too.

But with Judith, 47, working as an organist at Stafford Crematorium, they began to see they could diversify. After speaking to colleagues and friends, they decided to forge ahead with the plan.

She said: "About three years ago we bought the other car as we wanted to make our business more diverse.

"I went over the idea with people I knew and asked them their feelings about it and they gave us plenty of support – and after a lot of work here we are today.

"Family and friends really weren't that surprised when we told them what we were going to do, I think perhaps because I have worked in the crematorium for 29 years they were used to it."

"Often people have great interest in classic cars and so for them to then have their final journey in one can be something relatives like the idea of as it suit s their personality."

So far the couple have done 214 weddings and one funeral – but have had a lot of interest since they launched last year.

Andrew, aged 53, said: "The funeral we did was in Streetly and we got some excellent feedback about it as his family said he loved Morris Minors but had never owned a Traveller.

"So they were very happy with how we could help."

Andrew has been a Morris Minor enthusiast since 1993 when he began re-storing one. However it soon grew into more than a hobby and he was able to take it on as a full time job.

As far as they know, they are the only firm in the country to offer the service, although there is a growing trend for unusual hearses, from Hot Rods to motorbikes also being converted.

"While some people have seemed a bit uncomfortable with the idea, the majority are very positive," said Andrew.

"If a Morris Minor has been a big part of their life, or even their interest in classic cars, then it seems fitting they say goodbye this way too," he added.

Trudy was built and registered in 1965 and she was supplied by Colmore Depot, based at West Bromwich. But she gradually became run-down through daily use, until Andrew bought her as a complete wreck in 2009.

Andrew said: "It is definitely a love that you have to do this. But it dovetails in perfectly with the wedding business. I also have a small business supplying car parts and spares too.

"It is quite a niche business but I really enjoy it."

Judith added: "While we haven't had that many jobs yet, when a loved one does pass and they had a love of classic cars of Morris Minors, I am sure that it will trigger in their families mind having seen us.

"People seem to want to have funerals that mean something and this is the perfect way to show it. It is something a little bit different, but in a good way. It's such a positive thing to do and we are glad we can offer this service."

The couple drive the vehicle for a funeral up to 60 miles from Cannock, rather than it being towed, and the coffin fits neatly beside the driver in the passenger side.

For more details visit www.morrisminorhearse.co.uk, email andrew@morrisminorhearse.co.uk or call 07530771316.