Crowds turn out in Sussex for Dame Vera Lynn’s funeral

The Forces’ Sweetheart, who lived in Ditchling, East Sussex, for 50 years, died on June 18, at the age of 103.

Many who knew her have lined the streets of Ditchling today to pay their respects, describing her as a ‘legend’ and ‘superstar’ who did so much for so many.

A cortège, bearing Dame Vera, will leave the family home in Ditchling at 11.40am.

It will pause at the crossroads in the centre of Ditchling to acknowledge her long and happy 50-year association with the village and to allow residents to pay their respects.

A flypast by the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, consisting of a Spitfire and a Hurricane will take place during the pause at 12noon, overhead the centre of the village.

The cortège will then head to Woodvale Crematorium, north of Brighton, where a tri-service route-lining party will wait outside the chapel, together with a military bearer party ready to receive the coffin.

A bugler from the Royal Marines will provide a musical tribute inside the chapel.

The Ministry of Defence will be represented by a senior officer who along with the bugler and the small family group will be the only people to attend the funeral service.

More to follow.