Thousands line streets for Sir Tom Finney's funeral in Preston

Preston North End fans said an emotional farewell to Sir Tom Finney this afternoon as thousands gathered in the stands at the club's stadium to watch his funeral service.

The ceremony was broadcast live to Deepdale from Preston Minster, where hundreds of guests - including some of British football's great and good - united to pay their respects.

Sir Tom Finney's coffin has left Preston Minster after a service attended by 600 invited guests, including the football legend's former England colleagues Sir Bobby Charlton and Jimmy Armfield.

Thousands more watched on outside and at Preston North End's Deepdale stadium as a town paid tributes to one of the nation's greatest-ever players.

Fellow footballing icon Jimmy Armfield is among the speakers at Sir Tom Finney's funeral in Preston today, describing him as "the classic case of the local boy done good".

The former Blackpool right-back is paying tribute alongside a number of figures from the game, including Sir Bobby Charlton and the current Preston North End staff.

Crowds have amassed at Preston's Deepdale stadium to watch the service, while thousands are also lining the streets to pay their respects.

A floral tribute from FIFA, the international football federation, offers a tribute to a player described as one of the game's greatest.

Preston North End playing staff and management have carried the coffin of former player Sir Tom Finney into Preston Minster ahead of his funeral service.

Sir Tom Finney's funeral cortege has arrived at Preston North End's Deepdale stadium, met with applause from fans who have lined the streets to pay tribute.

Preston North End's captain has described Sir Tom Finney as an "inspiration to every player who appeared for the club".

Speaking alongside him on their arrival at Preston Minster, manager Simon Grayson added: "It's a sad day but one which we should celebrate what he achieved.

"He was a humble person. I was privileged to meet him."

Manchester United manager David Moyes has joined club legend Sir Bobby Charlton and former manager Tommy Docherty among the guests at the funeral of Sir Tom Finney.

Sir Trevor Brooking has joined a number of figures from the football world paying tribute to Preston North End and England icon Sir Tom Finney.

Sir Trevor told ITV News' Richard Frediani: "It's 50 years since he played but today's turnout is a tribute to what he meant. He was a great player for Preston and England."

Fans and mourners have lined the streets to pay tribute to their local hero ahead of the ceremony, which will kick off at 1pm on Thursday afternoon.

Mourners for the funeral of Preston North End legend Sir Tom Finney have begun arriving at Preston Minster.

Fellow knight Sir Bobby Charlton is expected to join Jimmy Armfield and Tommy Docherty at the service.

Sir Tom's coffin will be carried by former and present Preston players and staff.