War dead to be driven down side streets to avoid the public - Telegraph.co.uk

"I am not sure taking coffins in hearses past schools, past families, past married quarters is necessarily the thing that everybody would wish to see … the focus must be on the families of the dead service personnel. They are the people who care most. That is where our focus is."

The Ministry of Defence said the route from RAF Brize Norton, where flights had landed until the runway was closed for repair work in 2007, was decided by Oxford City Council but claimed that the side gate would be used to ensure minimal disruption to normal operations.

A spokesman added: "Consideration has also been given to ensure the dignity and solemnity of the military repatriation ceremony is maintained and to those who are arriving at RAF Brize Norton about to deploy on operations."

Wootton Bassett was the first town in more than 100 years to be granted the "Royal" title in recognition of its parades for fallen soldiers.

John Beauchamp, 80, a local Navy veteran, said: "Wootton Bassett has done a damn good job and anyone who tries to hide it away should emigrate."