Funeral details for popular Littlehampton resident Italian Tony revealed – including fitting final farewell

Italian Tony was a familiar face around the town, often seen on his bike serenading passers-by.

The 59-year-old’s death on March 29 sparked a huge outpouring of grief and well-wishers have been invited to join a fitting farewell next Monday.

After Tony’s funeral at 1.30pm on Monday, his cortege will travel through the town to the cemetery.

One of his famous bicycles, which became a floral monument in the days after his death, will be ridden by a family member and the public have been encouraged to join on their own bicycles and motorbikes for what his family has called ‘Tony’s Last Ride’.

People joining the procession are asked to socially distance, but to bring Italian memorabilia such as flags, or to drive Italian vehicles if possible.

The cortege will leave from St Catherine’s Church, in Beach Road, following the service.

Sadly, Covid restrictions mean only 30 people can attend.

Tony’s family said flowers would be welcomed and, if anybody wanted to make a donation in Tony’s honour, please donate to the charity Mind or a local foodbank.