An entire village is expected to turn out today to mourn the loss of an 11-year-old schoolboy.

The funeral of Daniel Mullinger, who was killed last Tuesday when a tree bough fell on him during a school trip, was due to be held at St Mary's Church, West Bergholt.

To allow for the large numbers attending the funeral, speakers have been set up outside the church.

The service will also be relayed into the church hall, via a sound system.

Church warden Philippa Slater, whose son also attends Heathlands Church of England Primary School and was on the same trip, said: "We have made as much capacity available as possible.

"A lot of people attending the service will know the family. There are others who know the effect it has had on the whole school, and feel very strongly about coming and showing their support.

"It has affected everybody so deeply."

Daniel, from Stanway, had been on a school trip at Fellbrigg Hall in Norfolk when the accident happened.

Three other pupils were also hurt and are now recovering from their injuries.

The school, in New Church Road, is closed today in a mark of respect to the family.

The service was due to start at 11.30am.