FOOTBALLERS from different generations united in a tribute to former Burnley keeper Billy O'Rourke yesterday.
Clarets legends Brian Miller, his first manager at Burnley, another ex-Turf Moor player and boss Frank Casper and players Mike Phelan and Derek Scott joined youngsters from local soccer clubs at a packed All Saints Church at Anchorsholme in Blackpool for the funeral.
Players and representatives from his two other major clubs Blackpool and Tranmere Rovers gathered with under-17s from Thornton Cleveleys Juniors and Wyre Juniors to pay their respects.
Mourners heard a moving address from Billy's brother-in-law Stewart Atkinson, who said he would help anyone in need.
"If you wanted a favour doing, Billy was your man - generous to a fault especially with children.
"He has left us memories of a shy caring man. I will remember him as a big man with a big heart."
The vicar, the Rev Peter Nunn, spoke of encountering someone outside the church the night before who had been in digs with Billy in Burnley and had come from the south for the funeral.
The flag at Turf Moor has been flying at half mast in memory of a popular character from the club's past.
O'Rourke died from a brain haemorrhage aged 41 and leaves a widow and 16-year-old son.
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