Gypsy funeral to cause traffic chaos?

POLICE and council chiefs at Warrington are warning of heavy traffic in the town today as a large funeral cortege passes through.
The funeral – understood to involve a leading figure in the gypsy community – is taking place at St Helens.
But the funeral procession is expected to arrive in Warrington at about 1pm under police escort en route to Preston, where burial will take place.
It will arrive at Junction 8 of the M62 and will travel along Charon Way, Europa Boulevard, Cromwell Avenue, Winwick Road, Long Lane, Orford Green, Orford Road and King Edward Street before turning right into Manchester Road.
Once the cortege arrives at Manchester Road it will stop for approximately 30-45 minutes which will require a road closure from King Edward Street to Padgate Lane.
Access will be maintained for residents/ local businesses during this time.
A diversion route for westbound traffic on Manchester Road will be via Kingsway, Farrell Street, Church Street, Fennel Street and Brick Street.
Eastbound traffic will be diverted along Padgate Lane and King Edward Street.
After this pause the cortege will then travel along Manchester Road to Cockhedge island and return back down Manchester Road stopping at Bibby Avenue.
Timing are approximate and matrix signs will be in usage throughout the day to advise drivers of further information or delays.
Police are urging drivers to use alternative routes if possible.
Gypsy funerals, like weddings, are often large affairs attracting hundreds of people. Traditionally, the name of the deceased is not mentioned.
It is understood the funeral was for Thomas Mongan, 26, who was found dead at his Sutton home on Sunday, December 23.