Bereaved families can be involved with a loved one's funeral service even if they cannot attend thanks to online services at Parc Gwyn Crematorium.

For more than 12 months the crematorium near Narberth has offered a virtual option which enables far-flung family members and friends to watch a service via a webcast, available for seven days or purchase a DVD.

Strictly password controlled by the family of the deceased, the service has proved quite popular with those unable to attend because of distance or ill health.

Pembrokeshire County Council said that approximately one out of 110 funerals at the crematorium is webcast each month.

Funeral director Stuart Treharne of EC Thomas and Son in Pembroke Dock told the Western Telegraph that a number of families had used the service, including three requests for DVDs last month.

"This facility being offered is brilliant. I try to offer as much choice as I can to make it personal and people from away are thinking it's a good service. I think it's a good idea and I'm glad the facility is there.

“It's a very emotional time, and sometimes people are emotional because they can't come to the funeral but now they have the choice of watching it," Mr Treharne added.

Shane Morgan, of Tom Newing and Son, Milford Haven, also found the service to be quite popular, especially during the heavy snow earlier this year.

"We have used it a few times where families can't come down, say a family is abroad and they can't take part in the service. We've also used it when the family haven't wanted to watch it live but they've taken a DVD.”

A DVD of a service costs £41, and there is also audio versions available for £34.

For more information about the service contact Parc Gwyn’s superintendent registrar James Allen on 01834 860622.