Hundreds of people have gathered to celebrate the life of Martyn Hett, a gay guy who died in the Manchester Arena terror attack.
The 29-year-old, from Stockport, was one of 22 people killed in the bomb blast on 22 May.
Taking place today at Stockport Town Hall, many actors from his favorite soap Coronation Street have arrived for the funeral.
His family said everyone was welcome to attend their son’s service, which is intended to be a celebration of his life.
Martyn’s mother said he would have wondered a ‘fabulous’ and ‘theatrical’ funeral.
A prolific figure on Twitter and LGBTI rights advocate, his friend Russell Hayward described him as ‘leaving this world exactly how he lived, centre of attention’.
‘Martyn was the icon of our lives,’ his family said in a statement. ‘Whilst they have taken the life out of Martyn no one can, and ever will, take Martyn out of our lives.’
It is being live screened outside for anyone unable to get into the hall.
Pop star Michele McManus performed at the funeral.
‘No one can, and ever will, take Martyn our of our lives’
Martyn was known for his Deirdre Barlow tattoo on his leg, as well as his viral Corrie videos.
Spent my Sunday evening making an extended version of my Audrey Roberts Noise video because I’ll forever be single. hby? pic.twitter.com/IPMyh0Ka78
— Martyn (@martynhett) March 19, 2017
Any @itvcorrie superfans out there who can match Martyn’s Deirdre Barlow tattoo?
https://t.co/UQMSd5TKbb pic.twitter.com/bRnW4hwUlu— BBC Radio 5 live (@bbc5live) May 22, 2017
The family have requested any memorial donations be made to the Kidscan Children’s Cancer Research charity, Beechwood Children’s Bereavement Service and Beacon Counselling, rather than flowers.
