Road policing arrangements for firefighters' funerals
The funerals of the four firefighters who died in a factory fire at Atherstone on Stour are due to take place at three locations in south Warwickshire during the next week.
Each funeral is expected to attract a large number of people and Warwickshire Police, working with the fire service and other partners, have produced a comprehensive road traffic and public safety plan to ease congestion and minimise disruption within the communities.
Some roads may need to be closed to allow the processions to travel between the fire stations and churches and parking will be restricted near key locations.
The four funerals are as follows:
* Friday November 30 11 am - funeral of John Averis, Tredington Parish Church.
* Monday December 3 11.15am - funeral of Ian Reid, St Gregory’s Catholic Church, Stratford.
* Wednesday December 5 11am - funeral of Ashley Stephens, St Nicholas Church, Alcester
* Friday December 7 11am - funeral of Darren Yates Badley, St Nicholas Church, Alcester
Members of the public are warned that due to the large numbers of mourners attending each funeral seats within the churches will be limited and the majority of people will be standing outside.
They are requested to heed the instructions of police officers at the scenes for their own safety and the safety of others as well as respecting the needs of the family and mourners as they say farewell to their loved ones.
They are also advised to be prepared for inclement weather and wear suitable clothing and footwear.
On Friday congestion is likely during the morning in both Shipston on Stour and Tredington, particularly on and around the A3400.
Motorists are advised to avoid this route if possible and may prefer to use alternative routes such as Campden Road and Darlingscote road.
Stratford District Commander Chief Inspector Christine Wadsworth said: "A local policing operation will be in place around Shipston and Tredington on Friday morning to ensure the safety of members of the public attending the funeral and to minimise disruption on the roads.
"Parking near the church will be very limited and we ask that drivers show consideration to local residents and other road users by not parking inappropriately and particularly to respect the privacy and wishes of the family at this difficult time."
Further details of road policing/public safety issues relating to the funerals in Stratford and Alcester will be released in due course.