Police called after ‘hundreds’ of mourners attend Edinburgh funeral procession

Officers said they spoke to attendees about “physical distancing guidelines”.

Edinburgh police officers spoke to dozens of mourners lining the street ahead of a funeral procession this afternoon.

Onlookers estimated that there were more than 200 people in attendance on Old Dalkeith Road in Gilmerton at around midday.

Photos and video footage appear to show large numbers of mourners dressed in Hibs clothing, standing in tight groups.

Photos and video footage appear to show large numbers of mourners dressed in Hibs clothing, standing in tight groups.

A spokesperson for Edinburgh police said officers on patrol in the area had: “engaged with a number of individuals who were in attendance at a funeral with regards to physical distancing guidelines.

“Appropriate advice was given where necessary and no further police action was required.”

Irvine Welsh, acclaimed author of Trainspotting, was in attendance at the gathering and referenced the social distancing in a short tribute posted on Instagram.

“Taken way, way, too young. So sad for the family,” he wrote, “Social distancing observed with dignity in trying circumstances.”

A Message from the Editor

Thank you for reading this story on our website. While I have your attention, I also have an important request to make of you.

In order for us to continue to provide high quality and trusted local news on this free-to-read site, I am asking you to also please purchase a copy of our newspaper.

Our journalists are highly trained and our content is independently regulated by IPSO to some of the most rigorous standards in the world. But being your eyes and ears comes at a price. So we need your support more than ever to buy our newspapers during this crisis.

With the coronavirus lockdown having a major impact on many of our local valued advertisers - and consequently the advertising that we receive - we are more reliant than ever on you helping us to provide you with news and information by buying a copy of our newspaper.

Thank you

Joy Yates

Editorial Director