Family of Willy Collins ‘weren’t warned about social distancing rules’ before Sheffield funeral

The former bare knuckle boxer, 49, was laid to rest in an elaborate traveller funeral that attracted hundreds of mourners .

Mr Collins, who died suddenly in Spain last month, took one final tour of the streets of Darnall and Pitsmoor in a white carriage, pulled by six horses before being laid to rest in a gold plated coffin at Shiregreen Cemetery.

However, some residents raised concerns over social distancing on the day and the amount of mourners at the funeral, when Sheffield City Council only allow a maximum of 25 people.

In response to criticism about the number of attendees and a lack of social distancing, his son William said: "We weren’t warned about any social distancing rules, we weren’t told by the police you can’t do anything. In our view we didn’t do anything wrong.

"There were no regulations given to us, it was basically get up and do what you want.”

William said his father’s Blessing will take place on 7 July next year, when the family will have a Mass for him.

William added: "We are very, very grateful for everyone that turned up from Sheffield that knew him. We have read the comments from a lot of people and we didn’t want to rise to it, we just wanted to let our dad rest in peace.

"People loved him and people didn’t. That’s just the way it is in the world. The good comments outweigh the bad.”

A spokesman for South Yorkshire Police said: “The Government recommend that when socialising with those outside their household, people should observe social distancing of at least two metres.

"This recommendation is guidance, and is not enforceable as law. Our officers will however, always advise people to adhere to social distancing and other related guidance in order to prevent the spread of Covid-19 and keep people safe.”