Milligan's private family funeral

Spike Milligan was buried yesterday in a quiet family funeral.

Just 100 invited family and friends said their goodbyes to the comic genius at St Anthony's in Rye, East Sussex.

His family wanted a private affair - but a memorial service will be held later.

Another 50 fans from across the country gathered outside to pay tribute.

Wreaths included one from his son Sean, with Spag on it - the pet name Spike's children called him - and the messaged: "With all our love, Om Shanti Goonius, Sean, Barbara, Spon and Sponse"

Spike's widow, third wife Shelagh, 56, had a proud smile beneath her black veil. His daughters Jane, 35, and Sile Harrower, 44, walked in together, smiling.

All of his six children were there, including the illegitimate Romany and James whom he barely knew.

Michael Sellers, son of Spike's Goon Show comedy colleague Peter, read passages from Spike's favourite poems.

Prince Charles sent a wreath with the message: "For Dear Spike - In grateful and affectionate memory - Charles".

And Eric Sykes, 78,who collaborated with Spike on some of the Goon Show scripts, said: "I won't say goodbye Spike, because I'll be with you soon. God bless."

Spike died of liver failure on February 27, at the age of 83.

Published: 9 Mar 2002