Funeral plea as police called to service over large crowd of mourners

The service at Sugar Lane in Wakefield was reported to the authorities, including the police, because the number exceeded the 30-people limit.

Gary Blenkinsop, Wakefield Council’s service director for environment and streetscene, said: “We understand that the loss of a loved one during the coronavirus outbreak is an especially difficult and challenging time for families and I would like to offer my sincere sympathies to anyone who is affected.

“We were aware of this funeral and have been liaising with the funeral director and police to raise our concerns about the number of people who attended and to advise about the current restrictions.

“The government rules currently impose a limit of 30 mourners, which is there to keep everyone who is involved, both families and staff, as safe as possible. We urge people to please follow the rules to help control the spread of the virus.”

A police spokesman said: "Officers engaged with members of the public to explain and encourage them to comply with the rules.

"The funeral passed off peacefully."