But Mr Mannings he was told by representatives of the funeral director it was the correct body and the man was known by two names.

A spokesman for Co-operative Funeralcare said: “Regrettably, we can confirm as a result of an unfortunate error the wrong deceased was taken for burial.

“This was noticed at the graveside.

“The deceased was immediately returned to the funeral home after the mourners had left the graveside.

“The correct deceased was subsequently interred and a private memorial service was offered to the family.

“We have apologised to both families and provided them with complete details of the incident, and believe we have amicably settled the matter.

“We are currently carrying out an extensive investigation as to how this regrettable error occurred.

“We are aware of the legal regulations regarding burials and exhumation, but at the time of the incident, all parties acted in good faith and in the best interests of both families concerned.

“The necessary steps have been taken to apply for an exhumation order, on a retrospective basis.”

Wirral council confirmed an employee has been suspended pending an investigation.