Vehicles gather for youngster Mackenzie Swift's final journey as tragic boy's funeral takes place
Hundreds of mourners are expected for the youngster’s funeral
Vehicles have begun arriving and streets have been turned into a sea of yellow for the funeral of an 11-year-old boy who drowned in the River Don.
Hundreds of people are expected to pay their respects to Mackenzie Swift as the service takes place in Mexborough.
Vans, lorries and motorbikes decked out in yellow - Mackenzie’s favourite colour - have begun arriving while fences, lamp-posts and trees have been decked out with yellow ribbons.
The youngster is set to be honoured with a parade of supercars and motorbikes - and Mexborough is expected to come to a standstill as the town pays its respects.
The youngster’s body was found in the River Don on June 2 following a huge 48 hour search by emergency services.
Since the tragedy, the community has rallied with a string of emotional tributes and thousands of pounds pouring in for a funeral fund, which has raised nearly £19.000.
The youngster’s funeral taking place at St John’s Parish Church from 12.45pm.
A spokesperson for organisers Mexborough Rideouts said: “Firstly, we would like to thank everyone who is coming to pay their respects to Mackenzie and support his family during this incredibly difficult time.
“For members of the public who are not attending the church service - If you would like to pay your respects, we kindly ask that you stand along Doncaster Road.
“This will help keep Church Street clear, allowing the family and funeral procession unrestricted access to the church.”
Flowers, cards, or other tributes should be left near tp the entrance to the Athletic Club, as this is where the family will return after the service.
The procession will travel from the mini roundabout near The Falcon via: Mexborough Dual Carriageway, Doncaster Road, right at the Jet petrol station and Church Street.
“The family have asked us to remind everyone that this is a respectful farewell - please drive and ride responsibly and no wheelies, dangerous riding or driving and do not ride on public footpaths.
A petition calling for changes around waterways has been set up in the wake of Mackenzie’s death and a campaign has been launched to name a bridge over the River Don in his honour.
Flowers have been laid at the scene in Mexborough and a memorial service was held at St John The Baptist Church in Mexborough.
A huge balloon release took place in his memory and children at local schools wore yellow to honour him.
There was also a campaign for England fans to honour his memory with a minute’s applause in the 11th minute of the Three Lions’ opening World Cup game against Croatia.
Mackenzie was last seen going into the water near Ferry Boat Lane in Mexborough at about 8pm on May 30.
An inquest into his death has been opened by the Doncaster Coroner.