ONLY 12 mourners can attend funerals in certain chapels, in line with Government guidance on reducing the spread of coronavirus.

Brighton and Hove City Council is asking that only immediate family attend services at its chapels at Woodvale Crematorium in Lewes Road.

The council is also asking that residents only go to the city’s cemeteries if they are attending a funeral or visiting a grave, as there has been a rise in the number of people using the cemetery grounds for outings, exercise and dog walking.

Councillor Dan Yates, lead councillor for life events services, said: “Please be respectful to people coming to cemeteries to mourn the loss of loved ones who have died. The grounds are a place for contemplation and remembrance.

“It is understandable that residents living near the cemeteries have been choosing to visit, as this is in line with the guidelines to stay near to home when going outside. But we ask that everyone considers going to open spaces in the city that are not primarily places of mourning.”

“If possible, do not come into the cemetery grounds. Please give priority to those who come to mourn.”

For more information, visit brighton-hove.gov.uk.

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