The dead centre of the Web

A US funeral director in North Syracuse is offering to Webcast funerals for those people who can't pay their last respects in person. Fergerson Funeral Home claims it is the first in the US -- if not the world -- to offer the service. Webcasts are available in streaming video without having to download any additional software. The Webcast can be password protected to keep the service private and discreet. Families have to give written permission if they want any part of a funeral service broadcast over the Net. According to the undertaker: "A viewer might see the directors organising processions and pallbearers carrying caskets." Alfred E Fergerson, president of FFH and a self-confessed technology fan, said he thought of the idea after a friend of his was unable to attend a funeral in person. Fergerson reportedly will offer the service free of charge to anyone who wants it. He has yet to broadcast a funeral over the Net. Last month Britain' first cyber undertaker opened its doors for business. Funeralshop.co.uk lets people arrange entire funerals online, including the purchase of a headstone, coffin and flowers. The service is offered by United Norwest Co-op, a supermarket giant in the Midlands and North West. ® Related stories: Buy now, die later with UK's first cyber undertaker To check out Fergerson Funeral Home visit FergersonFuneralHome.com, click on "Galleries".