A DATE and time for the funeral of local rough sleeper Jimmy Murphy has now been announced.

Mr Murphy was set to have received a national health funeral after no relatives could be found following his death on Christmas Eve in Corringham town centre.

However, the local community is rallying around and a crowdfunding effort is underway to cover costs of a cremation and a tribute and has already received local support.

Corringham undertakers DJC Cotton & Sons have generously offered their services free and will cover most of the costs for the hearse, coffin etc.

Funeral arrangements are being co-ordinated by Thurrock Nub News editor Neil Speight who said: "Those who knew Jimmy are incredibly grateful to Dave Cotton and his team for their generosity. The sundry costs will hopefully be met by local donations through the fundraising page. It would be wonderful if local people could contribute to make this a truly community affair. You can do so here https://www.gofundme.com/f/james-jimmy-murphy Any donation will be gratefully received."

The funeral will take place on Monday, 18 March at 1.30 at Pitsea crematorium.

The funeral cortege will leave the car park of St Margaret's Church in Stanford-le-Hope at around 12.15pm and will travel via Church Hill, King Street, High Street and Corringham Road in Stanford to Corringham where it will travel along Springhouse Road and St John's Way in the heart of the town before leaving for Pitsea.

After the service, for those who wish to raise a glass or cup of tea to Jimmy, Corringham Club on Lampits Hill, will open its doors if anyone would like to gather to reflect on the day. Tea and coffee will be available free of charge.

Residents of both towns will have the opportunity to see Jimmy on his final journey. A service at Pitsea will be led by Rev Tom Rout though members of all faiths have been invited.

At a later date it is planned to scatter Mr Murphy's ashes on the Thames, reflecting his maritime past and a memorial will be placed in an appropriate place.