A Banbridge-based funeral director has appealed to motorists to show consideration to grieving families as they prepare to lay loved ones to rest.
Over the years, it has been common practice for many to stop, switch off their engines and allow a funeral cortege to pass uninterrupted, affording dignity and respect to the deceased and those who mourn their loss.
Sadly, that practice is being witnessed less and less.
It has got to the stage where accidents are a real danger, given the impatience of some who feel their time is more precious — their need to speed on their way — than the feelings of those saying their last goodbyes.
It is a common experience — and not a pleasant one — for heartbroken families, and for the undertakers and funeral directors who do everything in their power to take charge of the arrangements to ensure everything is as it should be, bringing comfort and compassion at such a difficult time.
Now Bells Funeral Directors of Banbridge have appealed to the driving public to show some respect.
The situation of late has reached such a stage that a public appeal has been made via social media.
“Sadly, this is so heartbreakingly true. Just lately, we are having more and more drivers on the roads being impatient and trying to push in on the funeral corteges — in between the hearse and the limousines with bereaved family members in, and even on funerals with the horses too,” they wrote.
“This is happening to the point where accidents have nearly been caused because someone just wants to cut in or cut through.
“I appreciate we drive slower, but this is someone’s final journey, and this is done out of respect. Whether this makes you 30 seconds, one minute or two minutes late for where you need to be, think about that person who has passed and the families that are following.
“A final journey is so precious.”
Such a simple — and far-from-unreasonable — plea.
