Details of private military funeral to be held for murdered Woolwich soldier Lee Rigby announced

Drummer Lee Rigby, who was killed near his barracks in Woolwich, south-east London in May, will be given a private military funeral in Greater Manchester on 12 July.

The funeral will be a private service at Bury Parish Church, according to a Ministry of Defence spokesman, and will be broadcast outside via a PA system.

A guard of honour will keep vigil over Rigby's body, which will be brought to the church the day before the service.

Rigby, from Middleton, Greater Manchester, served in the 2nd Battalion, Royal Regiment of Fusiliers, which has roots in Bury through links to the Lancashire Fusiliers.

A parade of drummers will escort the cortege shortly after 4pm on 11 July, to be met by a guard of honour of 40 soldiers drawn from his regiment. The regiment's will then conduct a service for the family.

Colin Lambert, leader of Rochdale Council, said the funeral was an opportunity for people to show their respect and grieve the death of a young soldier: "We are all united in sadness at this tragic event."

"Now the details have been announced, we would encourage all residents who would like to pay their respects to line the streets of Bury on Friday or sign the book of condolence."

Rigby was killed as he returned to Woolwich barracks from the Tower of London on May 22.

Michael Adebolajo, 28, and Michael Adebowale, 22, have been charged with his murder and are due to stand trial at the Old Bailey on November 18.