You can now have your ashes scattered in space thanks to this Chesterfield funeral directors

Spire Funerals has teamed up with Ascension Flights, which has developed an aircraft capable of propelling ashes more than 100,000 feet above the Earth’s surface.

A balloon filled with helium gas lifts the ashes into space before dispersing them and deploying a parachute that ensures the craft returns to Earth safely.

The ascent and moment of release can be captured on video and made into a memorial film.

Owner Mark Rothman said: “This is in a different dimension to what we usually offer.

“We are a very traditional family-run funeral directors, but are always keen to offer alternatives to families.

“We already offer services that involve using ashes to make beautiful jewellery, such as our ashes into glass service.

“It’s all about choice and creating a bespoke funeral.

“This one’s a little bit different and quite fascinating, really.

“To my knowledge we’re the only funeral home in Chesterfield that has jumped on board.”

Ascension Flights was created by two graduates from the University of Sheffield who later took the idea to the Dragon’s Den.

The idea behind the venture is: ‘We are all stardust, so when the time comes why not let our dust return to the stars?’.

Families can choose from three packages starting at £1,395.

For more information about Spire Funerals and services available call 01246 221555, visit spirefunerals.co.uk or follow the Facebook page at www.facebook.com/spirefunerals.