A FLEET of taxis is expected to join the funeral cortege for murdered taxi driver Gian Chand Bajar.

Police have warned that the procession, which will take place on Thursday, may result in some congestion on the roads in Gravesham as it makes its way from the family home in Gravesend to the crematorium at Blue Bell Hill.

Mr Bajar, a father-of-five, was found lying seriously injured in St Benedict's Avenue, Gravesend, late in the evening of May 23.

The 71-year-old had been run over by his own car, which was later found burnt out nearby. He died at Dartford's Darent Valley Hospital.

A horse and carriage will leave from the family home in Darnley Road at 9.45am and travel to the education centre at the Gurwara in Khalsa Avenue, Gravesend, where members of the community can pay their respects.

A coach and taxi drivers will then join the procession to the crematorium for a service at noon.

A spokesman for the family said: "We appreciate all of the help and support from the local community and would ask that Gian is remembered for the good work he did during his life.

"He was so well known by so many and the messages and memories of him we've received have been overwhelming and have helped the family through a very difficult time."

Police motorcyclists will escort the cortege throughout its journey.

* Luke Aujila, 20, of Dorchester Road, Gravesend, has been charged with Mr Bajar's murder.