A Minehead funeral director whose 25-year career has taken him from horse-drawn funerals to the sets of Bridgerton and The Crown has gained a Diploma in Funeral Directing.

Nick Rayfield works at Robson Funeral Services’ Park Street funeral home in Minehead. He began in the profession working with horses before becoming a funeral operative and later a funeral director, arranging and conducting services for bereaved families.

He has also worked freelance as a bearer, funeral director and carriage driver. His experience with horses and traditional funerals led to work on television productions including Gentleman Jack, Victoria and EastEnders. His credits include the funerals of Dot Cotton, one of the soap’s best-known characters, and Pauline Fowler.

His filming work has taken him to London and Leeds - but he hasn’t quite been mixing it with the A-list celebrities. Nor have his on-screen roles led to him being asked for his autograph.

“Even my Dad doesn’t recognise me on screen,” he laughed. “I can’t wear my glasses and often we are in wigs, period costume and make-up.”

“I’ve met a few big stars briefly, but they don’t have time to chat,” he told the Free Press. “It’s all so busy - I didn’t even get a photo outside the Queen Vic!”

Nick thinks the Diploma is good for him and for the families he works for. “It gives them peace of mind. They know we are professional and qualified,” he said.

Mark Robson, owner of Robson Funeral Services, said: “We are incredibly proud of Nick and what he has achieved. A Diploma in Funeral Directing is a fantastic achievement in itself, but Nick also brings 25 years of experience and knowledge to our team.”

“Most importantly, however, Nick genuinely cares about the families he looks after.”