Prince takes an interest in wool coffin

Leeds-based textile firm, Hainsworth, has been invited to show off its environmentally friendly coffin at a "green" garden party hosted by The Prince of Wales at his Clarence House home this week.

The Prince is joining forces with some of the UK's best-known musicians, comedians, environmental experts and businesses to promote the small steps consumers can make towards a more sustainable future.

The Prince of Wales was impressed by the Natural Legacy Woollen coffins made by Hainsworth at the launch of the Campaign for Wool earlier this year.

He decided to invite the textile business to lead the "Campaign for Wool" exhibition at the Clarence House garden party, which runs until September 19.

It gives Hainsworth, of Stanningley, the chance to display some of the environmentally responsible products it sells across the world.

The woollen coffins will form the centrepiece of the Campaign for Wool exhibition. Created in response to increased demand for environmentally friendly burial alternatives, the coffins have proved popular since launching last year.

Hainsworth will also be showing off its John Atkinson range of natural blankets that are sold around the world.

The company also produces snooker baize, military fabric, protective textiles and piano felt.

Rachel Hainsworth, a spokesman for Hainsworth, said: "To get a Royal invitation to a high-profile event such as this is a great boost for us, and we will be showing our products to more than 90,000 people

who are interested in making small changes to their lives to make a big difference to the environment.

"Wool is one of nature's performance fibres and prior to synthetic materials, was one of the most important commodities in the UK. There are significant environmental, health and economic benefits attached

to its increased use and we

are proud to be a part of the Prince's effort to revive the public's interest in natural, eco-friendly products."

Referring to the event, The Prince of Wales said: "I am delighted to be able to welcome visitors into my gardens, and those of my immediate neighbours, for this exciting festival.

"We have a fantastic team of talented curators who are helping us create an event which will, I hope, be both fun and informative. This festival can help to demonstrate how we can all make a difference, however big or small the steps we take."