### Fans Invited to Honour Ozzy Osbourne with Funeral Procession Through Birmingham
Ozzy Osbourne’s passing at the age of 76 has prompted a poignant tribute in his hometown, as fans are invited to line the streets of Birmingham to bid farewell to the legendary musician. Known as the Prince of Darkness and famed for his role as Black Sabbath’s frontman, Ozzy’s influence on rock music and his passionate roots in Birmingham will be centre stage in a funeral procession held on Wednesday, 30 July.
The route will see Ozzy’s cortege travel through the heart of Birmingham, making a significant pause at the Black Sabbath bridge and its commemorative bench. This location, already transformed into a spontaneous memorial, has become adorned with flowers, notes, and candles from fans mourning his loss. The bridge’s outpouring of affection underscores the deep connection between Osbourne and his native city, a bond that has only grown in the wake of his death.
At exactly 1pm, the procession is scheduled to make its stately journey down Broad Street. Ozzy’s final tour through Birmingham will be accompanied by live music, as the acclaimed Bostin’ Brass band provides a moving soundtrack for this historic moment. The mournful but celebratory tones are expected to echo through the streets, matching both the gravity and the legacy of a figure who helped define a generation of music.
The Osbourne family, eager to ensure a fitting tribute, has personally covered security and logistics costs for the event, emphasising their desire for a respectful and secure environment for mourners. According to reports, this gesture was met with gratitude from Birmingham officials and the wider public, further evidence of the family’s commitment to honouring Ozzy’s legacy.
Among those reflecting on the significance of the event was Birmingham’s Lord Mayor, Councillor Zafar Iqbal MBE, JP. He highlighted Osbourne’s unique place in the city’s story, describing him as “more than a music legend – he was a son of Birmingham.” With his recent awarding of the Freedom of the City and a triumphant performance at Villa Park’s Back to the Beginning concert, Ozzy’s ties to his home were unwavering until the end.
The Lord Mayor also expressed appreciation for the Osbourne family’s generosity, stating, “We’re proud to host this with his loving family in the place where it all began, and we are grateful they have made it possible.” The city council has extended thanks to local businesses and residents for their understanding, as well as to West Midlands Police and Metro services for their assistance during the procession.
Logistical changes are expected as Broad Street will close to vehicles starting from 7am on the day of the funeral. Public transport, including buses and trams, will be rerouted to accommodate the crowds anticipated to gather. Stewards will be on hand for guidance, and the route is expected to reopen later that afternoon, maintaining minimal disruption for those travelling through the city.
For fans unable to attend in person, a live camera feed will broadcast scenes from the Black Sabbath bridge, allowing supporters from across the globe to witness the tribute in real time. This digital presence recognises Ozzy’s worldwide influence and ensures no admirer is left out of his final salute.
As Birmingham prepares to say its last goodbye, the city stands united in both grief and gratitude. Osbourne’s legacy, forged in the factories and clubs of the Midlands, will undoubtedly resonate through Birmingham’s streets and beyond, long after the procession has passed. The public farewell offers a chance for fans of all ages to reflect on his remarkable career and enduring impact on music and culture, as the city comes together for one last curtain call.