Funeral director speaks out after advert on Queen's hearse sparks outrage

The funeral director used to transport the Queen's coffin across Scotland has spoken out after an advert on the hearse sparked outrage.

On Sunday (11 September), the undertakers began moving the coffin containing the body of Queen Elizabeth II from Balmoral to Edinburgh.

However, spectators were quick to notice an ad featuring the name of the funeral company 'William Purves' on the side of the vehicle.

Thousands of people clocked the name of the business and flooded its website with visits, causing it to crash, while others took to social media to criticise the sticker, with some branding it 'tasteless'.

Crass and tasteless to stick an advert for the undertaker on the side of the Queen's hearse. They did this (different firm, obviously) for my mum's funeral and I had to tell them to remove it. In what universe is this commercialisation considered acceptable? pic.twitter.com/t7R342AEnp

— Richard Horsman (@leedsjourno) September 11, 2022

That includes this person who wrote on Twitter: "Crass and tasteless to stick an advert for the undertaker on the side of the Queen's hearse."

Another said: "Sad days when the funeral director makes sure he gets free advertising all the way to Edinburgh."

Though the ad was clearly visible at the start of the journey, it had disappeared by the time the hearse reached its destination.

While many were left wondering whether the removal was a result of the backlash, a spokesperson for William Purves has since confirmed this to be the case.

Speaking to The Sun, they said that the sticker was taken off 'at the earliest opportunity' following the outcry online.

The trouble with hiring one from the local firm is that you get advertising. They should have peeled that off. I'm sure William Purves are brilliant and will do marvellously but this isn't done. pic.twitter.com/dhe9jLrjst

— Podders (@Morris_Oxford) September 11, 2022

They told the publication: "When the procession left Balmoral, we became aware of the negative attention our company was receiving in relation to the branding and removed the logo at the earliest opportunity.

"We took action as soon as possible and pride ourselves on being discreet for all our clients.

"We changed the colour of our hearse from silver to black and the branding is a common feature on our cars.

"This procession was meticulously planned and rehearsed every month for a number of years.

"We noticed there was a deflection of attention during the procession which was playing out on social media.

"We acted at the earliest opportunity.

"It's been a privilege and an honour to serve the Queen and we've received the most amazing support locally and globally for yesterday's procession."

The Queen's coffin was transported to the Scottish capital after having laid in the ballroom of Balmoral Castle.

Thousands of people have been travelling to pay their respects to the deceased royal before her body is taken to London ahead of her funeral on September 19.

Attendees at the funeral will include US President Joe Biden, as well as politicians and dignitaries from around the world.