A PRESTIGIOUS mill claims to have created the world's first woollen coffins to satisfy an unusual gap in the funeral market. 

Pudsey-based AW Hainsworth, which clothes royalty at ceremonial events, invented the product because of dissatisfaction at traditional caskets. 

Conventional coffins are made from wood, which makes them cold, angular and unapproachable to grieving family members, according to AW Hainsworth. 

Woollen coffins on the other hand, each made from three fleeces and costing £900, encourage grievers to approach and connect with their lost loved one. 

As a 100 per cent biodegradable object their introduction also satiates a growing demand for environmentally friendly coffins. 

Mourners can either bury the caskets, for them to rot in the ground, or cremate them and keep the ashes. 

The idea of woollen coffins goes back to the 17th century, when the deceased had to be buried in wool in an attempt to boost the industry. 

AW Hainsworth, aware of criticisms levelled at traditional coffins, decided to reinvent the idea and have since placed a patent on it. 

The coffins are made from wool and comprise an MDF base board, a cardboard frame and a cotton lining. 

The textile company has been operating for more than 230 years and have a number of high profile clients. 

The mill produced the opulent outfits worn by the royals, including those warn by Prince William and Harry at their weddings. 

They also clothe the military and are responsible for clothing the RAF's in their famous blue colours.  

Hainsworth is also considered the best producer of pool and snooker cloth in the world. 

Julie Greenough, of AW Hainsworth, said: "The woollen coffin is a unique alternative to the conventional ones people are used to. 

"Traditional coffins have sharp angles and cold, hard edges whereas this one is very warm and approachable. 

"We are finding that family and loved ones find them to be very comforting, they're not as scary looking."

"These are the first and only woollen coffins to be introduced to the market," Mrs Greenough. 

She added: "They're also completely biodegradable, which is very important in this day and age."