Bargain hunters are being offered a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to beat the recession by buying their own gravestone at a knockdown price.
Fifers are being offered vouchers worth £50 if they buy their memorials before slipping off this mortal coil.
The amazing offer to those spending more than £500 on a headstone has come from Co-op Funeral Services in Fife, who have mailed vouchers to residents.
If the initiative proves successful, it could be rolled out across the UK.
News of the promotion follows a report which revealed the average cost of dying in the UK is £7,622 a 7% increase on last year.
The total includes a funeral, headstone and flowers.
Martin Ferguson, manager of Co-op Funeral Services in east Fife, said he anticipated most customers taking the deal would not take delivery of their memorial until their time comes.
He said: “We wouldn’t physically make them unless the customer requested that. To put an inscription on it now might be tempting fate.”
One Methil resident, who received the voucher in the mail last week, said the offer was “hilarious”.
She said: “It’s probably the best bargain I’ll get this side of the Pearly Gates. The only thing is, should I have it inscribed and put up now in the back garden?”
Another Buckhaven resident said: “It’s actually quite a good idea and something to think about. At least I’ll get what I want and my family won’t have to guess when I’m not here.”
Mr Ferguson confirmed there had been enquiries already and said customers could then relax safe in the knowledge their own funeral was well planned.
He said: “A lot of people like to plan and prepare and have their funeral organised. Also, people today are more conscious of the financial implications of a funeral and don’t want to burden their families.
“They recognise it’s a good deal and they get their own wishes, including the inscription they would like. It’s really just for peace of mind, then they can go and get on with their lives.”