Members of the public are invited to the funeral of Orpington Fireman Anthony Knott, which will be honoured with a special procession.

The 33-year-old father of four's body was found in the River Ouse, Newhaven, on January 10, three weeks after went missing following a night out with friends in Lewes.

His family has invited members of the public to pay their respects on January 30, and to join in with a full Fire Brigade ceremonial procession through the community.

Valentine & Turner Family, the funeral directors, said: "Anthony’s Family have said that for those who wish to pay their final respects, you are most welcome.

"He will be honoured with a full Fire Brigade Ceremonial Funeral on Thursday January 30 2020.

"The procession will be leaving Valentine & Turner, 262 High Street, Orpington, BR6 0NB at 10.15am.

"All are welcome to join other local businesses and community representatives as they line the high street.

"Anthony's family wish to thank everyone for their ongoing love, support, thoughts and prayers at this very difficult time."

The funeral itself is taking place at St Giles Church, in Church Road, Farnborough, starting at 12pm.

At a Brigade funeral the helmet and any medals awarded to the firefighter are placed on the coffin, which is typically draped with a Union Jack and carried by uniformed pall bearers.

In an emotional statement, the family of the Orpington man said his story had "touched the hearts of thousands of people" and thanked everyone who had helped in the search.

Large scale searches were carried out in an effort to find Mr Knott in the weeks that followed his disappearance, with Sussex Police deploying boats, dogs, drones and helicopters.

Almost 3,000 people have already signed a petition calling for additional safety measures around open rivers easily accessible to the public.