People who wish to say their goodbyes to murdered crime reporter Peter R. de Vries can do so on Wednesday from 11am until 8pm at the Carré theatre in Amsterdam.

De Vries’ funeral will be held on the following Thursday but only friends and family will be welcome at the private ceremony.

‘Every ceremony is a challenge, especially when the whole country is touched by the event,’ Hans Bleijerveld, director of funeral services at insurance group Monuta told NPO radio.

Blijerveld, who is responsible for both events, said safety measures had been taken but did not elaborate. The public are requested not to linger so as many people as possible can say their goodbyes, and to donate to the Tanja Groen fund instead of bringing flowers.

No negative coronavirus test or proof of vaccination will be necessary, the organisers have said, but a 1.5 metre distance will have to be maintained.