Warning over road closures in Ditchling for Dame Vera Lynn’s funeral

Road closures will be in place in Ditchling on Friday (July 10), for the funeral of Dame Vera Lynn.
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Sussex Police said the closures will affect B2112 Common Lane; B2112 North End; B2112 High Street; B2112 South Street; Beacon Road; Upper Beacon Road; and Ditchling Road, between the hours of 9am and 12.30pm.

This is to allow the funeral procession to pass through the village safely.

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Inspector James Scott of the Roads Policing Unit said: “Public safety is our priority and these road closures, alongside a small police presence in the village on the day, are in place to protect the community and help ensure the safe and smooth running of Dame Vera Lynn’s funeral.

Dame Vera Lynn, aged 103Dame Vera Lynn, aged 103
Dame Vera Lynn, aged 103

“We thank everyone in advance for their patience and cooperation during these closures.”

Crowds are expected to line the streets in Ditchling to pay their respects as Dame Vera is laid to rest.

The cortège will leave the family home in Ditchling at 11.40am.

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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.

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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.

Dame Vera sadly died on June 18, aged 103.

The Forces’ Sweetheart and national treasure passed away surrounded by her family.

A full memorial service will be held at a later date.