Funeral company gives free limo trips to the prom

A funeral director's limousines are being booked to help teenagers arrive at their end of school proms in style.

Hillier Funeral Service, Swindon, began the scheme after so many young people had their education disrupted due to the pandemic.

Becky Hillier, from the company, said the service has "grown year-on-year". Families are encouraged to donate to a charity of their choice with more than more than £2,700 raised last year.

"Now it's become more to help families. We know the cost of living is high. Everything that goes along with the prom is very expensive" she said.

Aisling Roberts' daughters have both used the limos: "They felt like princesses.

"The charity we picked to donate it to is quite close to our hearts."

They chose Harry's Get Home Safely, a local road safety campaign started after the death of local teenager Harry Parker.

"They dress up really well - they're all suited. He rang to make sure his tie co-ordinated with the dresses. It's fabulous," she added.

Ms Hillier said this year has seen the most cars booked out and they have had to say no to some families due to event clashes.

She said nobody seems bothered that they are usually at funerals: "They're lovely cars, they're well looked after. If they're not on a funeral, they just look like a limousine."

"Everybody has been so grateful."

It is hoped about £3,000 will be raised for charity this year.

Follow BBC Wiltshire on Facebook, X and Instagram. Send your story ideas to us on email or via WhatsApp on 0800 313 4630.