When not organising the final sendoff of 80,000 Britons each year, Co-operative Funeralcare likes to compile charts of favourite numbers heard at funerals. Its research reveals that popular songs now account for 40% of all music chosen for funerals. Hymns account for 55% and classical works a mere 5%.

My Way tops the pop chart, with Vera Lynn's possibly optimistic We'll Meet Again sneaking in at No 10. Bette Midler (Wind Beneath My Wings) is just behind Sinatra, ahead of Robbie Williams (Angels). Celine Dion (My Heart Will Go On) and Tina Turner (Simply the Best) are fourth and fifth.

Co-operative Funeralcare reports less conventional requests including theme tunes from Coronation Street and EastEnders and The Birdy Song. One deceased made the final journey to the sound of trains shunting in sidings.