Up to 20,000 people travel to Dewsbury for funeral of influential figure

Up to 20,000 people are on their way to Dewsbury for the funeral of an influential member of the community .
Markazi MosqueMarkazi Mosque
Markazi Mosque

Hafiz Patel was a prominent figure at the Markazi Mosque in Dewsbury. He died aged 92.

His funeral will take place at Savile Town playing fields at 4pm today (Friday).

The burial service will follow at Dewsbury Cemetery.

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Dewsbury South councillor Masood Ahmed said between 15,000 and 20,000 people have travelled to the town to pay their respects.

He said: “Hafiz was an instrumental figure in building the mosque to make sure there was something for the community.

People have flown in from around the world. That is how much he meant to people.”

Coun Ahmed has been liaising with West Yorkshire Police and Kirklees Council about potential congestion in the town.

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He said: “We want people to be aware that there may be some congestion while the service takes place.”

Arriva Yorkshire tweeted: “Allow extra journey time when travelling in the Dewsbury area.

“We are expecting increased congestion around Savile Town until early evening.