Hundreds salute Troubles veteran in emotional farewell as bikers join funeral cortège
Hundreds of mourners including bikers and members of the military community have attended the funeral of Northern Ireland veteran Dennis Hutchings.
The 80-year-old died in Belfast last month after contracting COVID-19 while he was in the city to face trial over a fatal shooting in Co Tyrone in 1974.
Mr Hutchings had pleaded not guilty to the attempted murder of John Pat Cunningham and also denied a count of attempted grievous bodily harm with intent.
Mr Hutchings' funeral service, which took place in Plymouth on Thursday afternoon, saw dozens of motorbikes accompanying the coffin as part of the cortege.
Hundreds of people lined a road and applauded and saluted as the coffin went by – before it was carried into St Andrew’s Church by military pallbearers.
The British Army agreed for members of Mr Hutchings' former regiment to attend the funeral "as a mark of respect" to the veteran's service and family.
Military flags were held aloft as the coffin went by and wreaths were laid outside the church.
The coffin was draped in a Union Flag, floral tributes and military headwear.
Among those at the funeral was Plymouth MP and former Veterans Minister Johnny Mercer, who spoke during the service.
Written in the order of service was the message: "Dennis’s family wish to express their sincere thanks to all those who have sent cards and messages of condolence, and for your presence at the funeral service today."
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