KNUTSFORDIANS have been told to expect traffic congestion in the town centre on Thursday afternoon as a funeral for a member of the travelling community takes place in a church on Princess Street.

Tim Kingston, Gypsy and Traveller Liaison Officer for Cheshire East Council, sent an email to the town's businesses on Wednesday, which said there would be the possibility of an increase in traffic as a result of the funeral, with up to 700 mourners expected.

Police also told the Guardian that Princess Street would be closed between 8am and 3pm.

The internment will take place at the cemetery on Tabley Hill Road, with Cheshire East closing that road for six hours in order to cope with the amount of well wishers. 

"To make you aware there will be a traveller funeral at the Methodist church on Princess Street on Thursday at approx 12.30pm," he said.

"Between 500 and 700 mourners are expected so there will be traffic disruption, the internment will be at Tabley Road Cemetery at 2pm, the family have not said there will be a wake however they may return to frequent the pubs in the town, the police are aware and have plans in place for the day."

Cheshire East Council also confirmed it was closing Tabley Hill Lane between 10am and 4pm so a procession could take place.

A notice from the council read: "Tabley Hill Lane/Tabley Road, Knutsford, from its junction with A556 Chester Road, in an easterley direction.

"Pedestrian access to any premises situated within the temporary closure will be maintained at all times.

"Vehicular access will be maintained for emergency vehicles and residents where possible.

"The closure is necessary to enable a procession to be undertaken.

"It is anticipated that the procession will take place on the following date(s): 26th March 2015 between the times of 10am and 4pm.

"This notice will become operative on 26th March 2015 for one day only."