Thousands lined the streets of Manchester to pay their respects as Ricky Hatton’s funeral cortege began. The procession was led by the Reliant three-wheeler associated with Only Fools and Horses, reflecting Hatton’s fondness for the sitcom. Hatton, nicknamed the Hitman, died aged 46 at his home in Hyde, Greater Manchester, on 14 September. The hearse started from the Cheshire Cheese pub on Stockport Road, Hyde, at about 09:45, with mourners applauding as it departed. The route proceeded to the Harehill Tavern, where doves were released at The New Inn in Hatton’s honour.

The procession paused at Hatton’s Gym, where supporters sang and took photographs. The hearse was due to continue to Manchester Cathedral via Hyde Town Hall, Betta Bodies gym in Denton and the AO Arena. After a private memorial service at midday, the cortege will travel from the cathedral to the Etihad Stadium, home of Hatton’s beloved Manchester City. Tributes including flowers and scarves were visible outside Hatton’s Gym on Friday morning, and Tyson Fury and Calum Best were among those seen arriving at the cathedral.

Hatton’s boxing career saw him claim the IBF world welterweight title in June 2005 after defeating Kostya Tszyu, and he later faced stars such as Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao in the United States.