An inventor from Osnabruck, Germany, has released a mobile phone (http://www.telefonengel.com) for the deceased. The idea is that once your loved one is six feet under, you will still be able to talk to them, even if the conversation might be a little one-sided.

The phone comes in a black box with a loudspeaker that is placed on top of the grave. It runs on a battery that lasts at least twelve months, and the inventor claims the sound quality is excellent.

For those who believe that telecoms links with the hereafter are a viable proposition - including the woman who claims to have received text messages from her late hubby (http://news.inq7.net/mobile/html_output/20050201-26093.xml.html) - the Telefon-Engel (Phone Angel) might be an excellent idea. It will, however, set you back a cool €1495. Disgruntled punters can return the phone within 18 months and get a generous €50 refund.

And if you don't fancy the idea of a grave phone, why not take inspiration from UK singer Cilla Black, who has scattered (http://www.sundaymirror.co.uk/news/tm_objectid=15131579&method=full&siteid=106694&headline=cilla--i-ll-always-have-bobby-s-ashes-with-me-name_page.html) her late husband Bobby's ashes at her four homes across the world - thereby ensuring close proximity with her dear departed at all times. ®

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