Armed police on standby at funeral of Salford's 'Mr Big' Paul Massey

Armed police will be on standby today at the funeral of a man that was known as 'Mr Big', due to fears of gang violence.

Paul Massey, 55, was shot dead at his home in Salford last month by a masked gunman over his alleged involvement in organised crime.

Superintendent Mark Kenny of Greater Manchester Police (GMP) has appealed directly to criminals not to take action into their own hands, telling BBC News that armed response teams would be available if needed.

Mr Massey had previously been sentenced to 14 years in prison for stabbing a man outside a nightclub in 1999.

The security boss also stood to become mayor of Salford in the 2012 mayoral elections.

Police were called to Paul Massey's home after he was shot dead by a lone gunman on July 27. Credit: PA

Hundreds are expected at the funeral service at St Paul’s CE Church near the estate where Paul Massey grew up in Salford.

Mourners have reportedly been asked to wear blue jeans and white shirts to Mr Massey's funeral as a tribute to him.