Liverpool says goodbye to Cilla

Cilla Black has achieved her first ever official chart topping album in what her family have called a 'perfect' tribute. The album called 'The Very Best Of' went to No.1 the day after stars and family gathered in Liverpool for the 72 year old's funeral.

Back on Merseyside they've been saying goodbye to Cilla today - It's been a day to remember the good times. A day to share memories. Especially poignant for those who knew her well and shared so many laughs along the way.

Victoria Grimes has this report on Cilla, the girl from Scotty Road.

Cilla Black was loved by people of all ages. From those who remembered her early singing days to those she made smile with Blind Date and Surprise Surprise. Which is probably why so many turned out in Liverpool today....

Barbara Windsor said Cilla Black had confided in her that she hadn't been feeling well recently.

The actress told ITV News she had seen Cilla twice in the past four weeks and they had "long chit chats".

The 77 year old described Cilla as a "great singer and performer", adding: "People will remember her, they won't forget her."

Peter Fincham, Director of Television at ITV, described Cilla Black as "one of Britain's best loved entertainers".

Guests and mourners have arrived for Cilla Black's funeral which begins at 1pm this afternoon.

Tom Jones reportedly flew back from abroad to be in Liverpool to say goodbye to Cilla. He described Cilla as a "person who loved people" and " a working class girl made good".

An emotional Jimmy Tarbuck said he "would have walked here" to be at Cilla's final farewell. He said his "heart bleeds for the her sons".

Also among the mourners were Les Dennis and Carol Vorderman.

Singer Gerry Marsden was also there to say goodbye.

Paul O'Grady, who will give a eulogy at the funeral, described Cilla as his "best friend".

Earlier Christopher Biggins said Cilla would have loved seeing the tributes on the streets from the people of Liverpool.

The service takes place at St. Mary's Church in Woolton from 1pm and is being streamed live on the ITV Granada and ITV National websites.

Actor and comedian Ted Robbins has paid tribute to Cilla Black saying when she was relaxing with friends she enjoyed a glass of champagne and a chip butty.

The comedian from Liverpool, who is also the first cousin of Paul McCartney remembered the down-to-earth girl from Scotty Road in Liverpool who became the 'big star' Cilla Black.