A Bangkok firm is making funeral wreaths out of books.

It is seen as an alternative to ones made of flowers and foam, which are reduced to rubbish after a few days.

The company Procentertrade 2001 says their wreaths can be ordered and delivered within 24 hours.

Managing director Kitti Chartbanchakorn says the books can be donated to children in need and other charities once the funeral is over.

Publishers each year are left with large amounts of unsold stock. Mr. Chartbanchakorn says these books are ideal for making the recyclable wreaths.

All are new and most had contents suitable for children and monks, he told the Bangkok Post.

He said: "We can arrange for popular books like Harry Potter if buyers so desire."

The company boss says he isn't looking to make a profit and cash made will be used for a fund to support young student researchers.