It was the last place on heaven or earth the internet would expect to be found by many traditionalists.

It was the last place on heaven or earth the internet would expect to be found by many traditionalists.

But now a Scottish funeral directors is allowing mourners, who are unable to pay their respects in person, the opportunity to watch their loved ones' funerals live online.

Co-operative Funeralcare is offering the service at its Craigton Crematorium in Glasgow.

Mourners are to be given a secure login to access the company's website to watch the service either live or at any time during the seven days after a funeral. They will also be able to keep a copy of the service on CD or DVD.

Every service will be protected by a password so only immediate family will be able to decide who will view the broadcast.

The Co-op's Craigton crematorium is the only one in Scotland to use the service although it operates in a number of cities in England.

Harry Tosh, crematorium manager and registrar, said: "We felt it was appropriate to install this new feature as an additional way of supporting bereaved families.

"The webcast can provide great comfort to family and friends who, for whatever reason, are unable to attend the funeral, as they are able to feel involved.

"This webcast service can be particularly valuable for families who have emigrated, allowing them to say their final goodbye, if they find it difficult to return home."

The webcast has been tried out once already in Glasgow and Mr Tosh said the feedback from the family was "excellent".

He added: "The deceased's family in Australia and Canada were able to get access to the service but it was also used by relatives in England.

"The family also asked for three DVDs and three CDs to send to relatives overseas."

In addition to ex-pats, Mr Tosh believes the webcast will also benefit people who cannot attend the crematorium because they are housebound or in hospital.

"We will not record every service, only those where the family request it," Mr Tosh said.

The service will cost £60 and a further £25 if families want to buy a DVD.