A funeral procession in memory of Ricky Hatton has commenced on Friday morning, allowing thousands of fans to pay their respects to the Mancunian boxing icon.
The funeral of the local legend, who died last month aged 46, is taking place today, with a memorial service to be held at Manchester Cathedral at midday.
While attendance at his funeral service is by invitation only, fans of the boxing legend have been invited to line the streets as his funeral cortege makes its way through the city, from Hyde to Manchester Cathedral.
In tribute to the boxing legend, one of Ricky's most treasured possessions, the Trotters' Robin Reliant car from Only Fools and Horses, has also been included in the procession.
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'The Hitman', who was an avid collector showbiz and sport memorabilia, bought the iconic van more than 20 years ago, complete with Trotters Independent Trading insignia, in homage to his favourite star from the Only Fools and Horses comedy classic.
Speaking to the M.E.N. at the time, Ricky said: "I have always been a fan of Only Fools and Horses, right from my school days.
"I have every single episode on video or DVD, and I collect memorabilia to go with it – I already have an Only Fools and Horse alarm clock, and signed photos of most of the cast members.
"The videos help me to relax – I am always sticking them on when I wind down after training, and know most of them off by heart. I bet my mum and dad are sick to the back teeth of them."
On buying the classic van, Ricky previously also recalled: "I asked a fellow who runs a website selling this kind of stuff to let me know if any of the eight three-wheelers they used in the show came up for sale and just recently he gave me a call.
"They delivered it to me, and the night before it came I was so excited I couldn't sleep. I got it MOT'd and insured, and now I just drive round in it. The BMW stays on the driveway."
After the memorial service at Manchester Cathedral, Ricky's procession will continue on to the Ethihad Stadium, which had been another of the legend's passions.
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