MOURNERS INCLUDING CELEBRITIES from across Ireland and the UK have gathered in Belfast today for the funeral of veteran comedian Frank Carson.
Fellow comics Lenny Henry, Stan Boardman and Roy Walker are among those who travelled to pay their respects along with broadcaster Eamonn Holmes, sports figures Dennis Taylor and Barry McGuigan and former presidential candidate Dana Rosemary Scallon.
Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness is also attending the ceremony at St Patrick’s Church on Donegall Street, the BBC reports.
The 85-year-old Carson was born in Belfast but lived for much of his life in Blackpool where his catchphrase “It’s the way I tell ‘em” is displayed on the resort parade. He died from stomach cancer last weekend.
Sky News reports that Carson’s brother Paddy said one of the comedian’s greatest achievements was attracting Protestant fans as a Catholic at the height of the Troubles.
Paddy Carson told the broadcaster: “He always strived to build bridges.”
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