Motorists could face long delays in Chester and Ellesmere Port today (Thursday, October 22) as roads are temporarily closed for mourners to pass through.

Roads will be blocked for safety reasons while a large funeral procession moves towards Chester Crematorium.

The funeral is understood to be for a prominent figure within the Traveller community.

Related: Traffic chaos as mourners attend Traveller funeral in Blacon

In Ellesmere Port, Enfield Road, is already closed until 2.30pm from its junction with Whitby Road to its junction with Compton place and Marina Drive will be closed from Rivington Road to Civic Way.

Westminster Car Park, Ellesmere Port will also be unavailable until 2.30pm.

Live updates: Ellesmere Port and Blacon Traveller funeral procession

From 1pm, Blacon Avenue, Chester will be closed from its junction with A540 Parkgate Road to its junction with Saughall Road.

Diversions put in place will send motorists via the A5480 Deva Link and Saughall Road.

Cheshire Police have confirmed pedestrian access to properties situated on the affected roads will be maintained at all times.

Access for emergency vehicles will also be maintained.

Additional congestion on the surrounding roads could be a possibility at these times.

A spokesperson from Cheshire Police said: “The closures have been planned in partnership with our colleagues from Cheshire West and Chester Council to manage traffic expected for a large funeral.

“Motorists are advised to avoid the affected areas at these times where possible.”