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Manchester Evening News

Manchester United fans' tribute to Sir Bobby Charlton in emotional scenes

Fans of Man United and other footballing figures were present to pay their respects to Sir Bobby Charlton.

The coffin is carried in at Manchester Cathedral for the funeral of Sir Bobby Charlton
The coffin is carried in at Manchester Cathedral for the funeral of Sir Bobby Charlton(Image: Manchester United via Getty Images)

Manchester said goodbye to one of Manchester United's most-loved football icons on Monday as thousands flocked to the memorial service of Sir Bobby Charlton, who died aged 86 last month.


During the procession, the hearse carrying the great man’s coffin made its way past Old Trafford, a venue in which he had created history and brought smiles to many faces. The memorial service took place in Manchester Cathedral with many esteemed football figures attending to pay their respects.


A number of United senior players were present including Luke Shaw and Harry Maguire. Supporters have been sharing their memories and emotions about Sir Bobby on what is a sombre day for the city and country.


READ MORE: Sir Bobby Charlton memorial service as it happened

READ MORE: Touching photos of life of Sir Bobby Charlton

'I burst into tears when I heard about Sir Bobby Charlton's passing’

“Sir Bobby, the legacy you left us with. History, dignity & integrity. Our promise to you. We will protect that legacy and keep the red flag flying high" - the words on a banner erected outside Old Trafford today.


United invited supporters to gather for Sir Bobby's funeral procession and they turned out in their droves.

Some fans had travelled hours to attend at Old Trafford and others had requested time off from work, but they all had something in common; they wanted to pay their respects to a legend.

Sir Bobby's passing last month, at the age of 86, left the football world in mourning and one supporter, speaking prior to the arrival of the funeral cortège, was too overwhelmed with emotion to be interviewed.


Read on >>>

In pictures: Thousands gather to say farewell to Sir Bobby

United fans and the football world joined together today to say farewell to Sir Bobby.

The procession then travelled to Manchester Cathedral where a memorial service was being held, attended by around 1,000 people including United greats such as Sir Alex Ferguson and players past and present. Manchester City CEO Ferran Soriano was also at the service to represent the Blues.

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Prince William, the Prince of Wales, in his capacity as Football Association president, and UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin also attended. We have been gathering images from today's proceedings in our gallery throughout the day.

View the gallery here >>>

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