Thousands of people lined the streets of Hyde to say an emotional farewell to World Champion Boxer Ricky Hatton who died aged 46.
Ricky Hatton’s funeral cortege was led by the famous Reliant van from Only Fools and Horses as hundreds of people lined the streets of Manchester to pay their respects to the “Hitman”.
The former boxing world champion was a big fan of the Del Boy and Rodney sitcom and once bought one of the original three-wheelers for £4,000, which he used drive round his home city.
The procession travelled to the Harehill Tavern before doves were released in Hatton’s honour at The New Inn.
A mural of the Stockport-born boxer has been unveiled this morning on Friday 10 October, at the Tavern in Hattersley, the town where he grew up.
The crowd applauded as the new black and white mural was revealed paying tribute to the boxer.
Another supporter of Ricky said it was important for him to turn up to pay his respects as "a lot of our life earlier on was following all of his fights so it brought a lot of joy".
There will be a further pause at Hatton’s Gym before the hearse continues on to Manchester Cathedral via Hyde Town Hall, Betta Bodies gym in Denton and the AO Arena.
Following a private memorial service, starting at midday, the procession will make its way from the cathedral to the Etihad Stadium, home of Hatton’s beloved Manchester City.
Speaking to ITV Granada Reports ahead of Hatton’s service at Manchester Cathedral, Amir Khan, another former world champion and a friend of Hatton said: "He was a great champion and a good person, not just inside the ring but outside the ring as well and he is always going to be respected.
"It is great to see that the whole boxing community is here today to pay their respects. He was a great champion and a great person."
Other Boxing stars in attendance include Tyson Fury, Natasha Jonas, Frank Bruno as well as Anthony Crolla who said Hatton "inspired a generation".
Prior to entering the service, Liverpool women’s boxer and two weight world champion Natasha Jonas said: "He was a warrior. He was loved by everyone inside of boxing and outside.
"You can see from the turnout today what he meant to the people of Manchester and beyond."
Other people in attendance for Hatton’s private funeral service included English Cricketer and presenter Freddie Flintoff, footballer Wayne Rooney and Liam Gallagher.
