Travelers’ funeral procession in Portland Road, Hove Brighton News

The horse-drawn procession with carriages decorated with Irish flags lined up along Tamworth Road.

Other cars emblazoned with flags and flowers were parked on Portland Road as the large group of mourners waited for the procession to depart.

About 100 to 150 people were near the church at that time.

The hearse, drawn by four horses emblazoned with Irish flags, turned left and headed east along Portland Road at around 12:20 p.m.

Mourners were pictured kissing and touching the hearse, which had flowers arranged in a ‘daddy’ shape, as the procession marched along the road.

Residents filmed on their phones as the music echoed through the street.

A Sussex Police spokesperson said: ‘We have been made aware of the travelers’ funerals taking place today in Hove.

“The officers had prior contact with the family of the deceased, funeral directors and the church to ensure that all steps were taken to ensure they complied with Covid restrictions and that an itinerary was been confirmed for the procession.

“At 12:20 pm, officers and PCSOs proceeded to Portland Road following reports of large numbers of people and vehicles parked in the area restricting traffic.

“People quickly returned to their cars and left the scene.”

Hove and Portslade MP Peter Kyle released a statement to Argus: “There is no doubt that the loss of a loved one during Covid has made the grieving process almost unbearable; there cannot be nothing worse than not being able to share your memories with your friends and relatives.

“The rules for exiting the lockdown are incredibly clear: ‘Funeral ceremonies should not accommodate more than 30 people, whether inside or outside’ and this is in place to ensure that the sacrifices we have not all made in the last 12 months. lost.

“We are so close to coming out of a very difficult winter lockdown. I urge everyone in our city to stay by the rules so that we can regain our freedoms.”