Comic's stand-up played in church

Heymer, who died last Friday at the age of 79, and Howerd both believed they had lived past lives in ancient Egypt.

The sarcophagus – a replica of Tutankhamun\'s – was transported between a private funeral in Weston-super-Mare, Somerset, and a public service in nearby Weare in a white carriage pulled by two white horses. A separate box of ashes was carried behind in a black horse-drawn carriage.

Around 100 people attended the service at St Gregory\'s Church, where they heard music including Hey Big Spender by Shirley Bassey and Waterloo by Abba, as well as a recording of one of Howerd\'s stand-up routines.

Heymer – who was also the comedian’s manager – was a waiter when he met Howerd in 1955, when homosexuality was still illegal, and their 41-year relationship was largely kept secret,

In his later years, Heymer was cared for by Chris Byrne – a controversial figure who was often described as Heymer and Howerd’s ‘adopted son’ to avoid gossip. Heymer and Byrne became civil partners shortly before Heymer’s death – despite a 40-year age gap – and now Byrne will inherit the comedian\'s multimillion-pound estate, including diaries which Howerd’s sister Betty disputes are genuine.

Last year, Rafe Spall played Heymer in a BBC Four drama, opposite David Walliams.\r\n

Published: 22 May 2009