A Sanderstead funeral directors has won an environmental award after offering bamboo and willow coffins.

A & D Pink, of Hamsey Green, Sanderstead, was given the Go Green award by southlondon.biz, which advises small businesses.

Run by Adrian Pink and his wife Diane Daniell-Pink, the company uses sustainable materials to make some caskets because they give off fewer emissions than traditional ones when breaking down and trees do not need to be cut down to make them.

Mr Pink said: "Willow and bamboo coffins are much better for the environment because they both come from sustainable sources and release less harmful emissions than a normal wood coffin.

"Bamboo grows back very quickly once it has been cut and willow is harvested every year, so we are not chopping any trees down and they look quite good, too."

The firm also uses paper to line the coffins, has energy-saving light bulbs and uses a couple of eco-friendly cars with low emissions.

"We chose to go this way because it's environmentally friendly and we like to offer the green alternative," Mr Pink said.

"There is a big market for it because people are so much more aware of the environment these days."

Southlondon.biz works with Croydon Council and recently launched the Go Green service to help 850 businesses with their waste and energy management.

The award is designed to recognise those who take big steps in this field and bring the eco-friendly lifestyle to their workplace.

Lee Sexton, green business officer for Croydon, said: "A & D Pink is doing a fabulous job in its work for the environment and is eco-friendly in every aspect, from its office to its transport."

As of October, Mr Pink will become the national president of the British Institute of Funeral Directors.