Funeral for Sidebottom's creator

Friends and family have gathered to pay tribute to Frank Sidebottom creator Chris Sievey at his funeral today.

Mourners at Altrincham Crematorium included comic actor John Thomson, singer Badly Drawn Boy and radio presenter Mark Radcliffe.

Chris's children gave eulogies, and at the end of the service the Beach Boys hit God Only Knows was played.

The funeral took place after fans rallied to raise more than £20,000 after learning that Sievey died penniless and was facing a paupers’ burial. The excess is expected to go to his family and cancer charities.

Sievey died last month at the age of 54 after a battle with cancer.

A massive celebration of his life, titled Frank's Fantastic Farewell, will be held in Manchester’s Castlefield Arena from 7pm next Thursday.

The free tribute night is expected to include a host of celebrity speakers and feature videos of Frank’s songs and artwork.

His daughter Asher Horsefield said: ‘Everyone is welcome and it should be a great night. Many thanks to those helping to put this event on and a big thank-you to everyone who donated to this fund. It means so much to us.’

Sievey also left two sons, Stirling, 31, and Harry, 18.

Published: 2 Jul 2010