Coffin Carrier, London & North Eastern Railway

Coffin carrier, London & North Eastern Railway. Painted black, on four wheels, curved roof and double doors at both ends.

The transport of the dead by rail had begun in the mid-19th century. When the concept was first introduced passengers and officials had reservations – there was a suggestion that what was perceived as the cold efficiency of train travel was not appropriate for the sombre occasion of a funeral.

British Rail officially put an end to carrying coffins by rail in 1988, although in reality the practice had long since ceased.