Huge crowds turn out for dad of two Simon Lingard's funeral

The funeral for Great Harwood’s Simon Lingard, also known as Grimmy, took place this afternoon (Friday December 16) at St Bartholomew’s Church.

Simon died on Monday, November 7, while helping to defend Ukraine from Russian invasion.

In touching tributes, veterans and locals lined Church Lane as the coffin was brought out from the hearse.

Veterans in uniform also lined the walkway to the church itself which also had a large Ukrainian flag draped at the entrance.

Later, guests made their into the church for a private ceremony.

Speaking on Radio 1, Simon’s ex-wife Stacey Longworth, from Blackburn said: “The children have chosen everything down to what he is wearing, the songs, everything.

“He is going in his paratrooper uniform. They wanted to make sure he was in his uniform with his medals so that’s exactly how he is.”

Members of the Royal British Legion branches and ex-military were at the funeral with people travelling from nearby towns such as Accrington whilst others had headed to Great Harwood from a little further afield.

Dave Fletcher had travelled from Skelmersdale to be at the funeral.

He said: “It was very important to be here today and see off a veteran who gave his life.

“I respect his actions and what he did.”

More than £31,900 was donated to a GoFundMe to pay towards the funeral costs.

The money left over will put in a bank account for his children, Jackson, 17, and Keane, 13.Stacey added: “Simon isn’t here anymore to support them, so it’s amazing that they will have some money for when they turn 18. It’s what Simon would have wanted.

“The kids can’t believe how much their dad was loved. They are so shocked at how much money has been sent in and how many well wished have been sent.

“They’re ridiculously proud.”