A FAMILY business is hoping to put the fun back into funeral by hosting coffee mornings next week.

R Gwinnell and Sons are holding events at several of their outlets to raise money and awareness for Macmillan Cancer Support as part of the national campaign.

Although the venue seems a little strange, organiser Arlene Ellis is hopefully people will turn out and help break down the taboo about death and loss.

“This is the first time we have done something like this and I am really looking forward to it,” she said.

“We want to help people get over the taboo of coming to a funeral parlour.

“It is not all doom and gloom and hopefully we will have some fun.

“Lots of local businesses have given us prizes and vouchers for competitions we will be holding on the day.”

The parlours in Manningtree High Street, Dovercourt High Street and on Holland Road in Clacton will be open between 10am and 1pm on Friday.