Crowds applauded Sir Bobby Charlton’s hearse as it left Old Trafford – before it continued on to his memorial service at Manchester Cathedral.

The Manchester United legend and England World Cup winner died aged 86 on 21 October, a few days after falling at his care home.

A service celebrating his life begins at 2pm, with Gareth Southgate joining current and former players to play tribute.

The procession is stopping at Old Trafford, where Sir Bobby is immortalised in a statue alongside Denis Law and George Best.

Former Man Utd captain Bryan Robson, speaking outside the cathedral, told Sky News that Sir Bobby should be remembered as a “fantastic player and a fantastic person”.

Others seen entering the cathedral include Peter Schmeichel, Gareth Southgate, Ryan Giggs, Paul Scoles and Ole Gunnar Solksjaer.

Prince William, who’s president of the FA, is also there

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As well as scoring 49 goals for England, Sir Bobby achieved legend status at Manchester United, making 758 appearances and scoring 249 goals.

Sir Bobby was diagnosed with dementia in November 2020 – the same disease that affected his brother Jack who died in 2020.

His service will remain private and won’t be broadcast or filmed, but crowds have turned out along the route to pay tribute.

Read more:
One of the great players and forever a gent of English football

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