Uncle Jack's final respects

Hundreds of mourners were at the funeral service, held two miles from the mansion that had been his home on the island for the past 25 years.

From the club's present staff were team captain Garry Flitcroft, manager Graeme Souness and assistant manager Tony Parkes.

The board of directors were also represented along with chief executive John Williams and former Blackburn Rovers player and PFA chairman Gordon Taylor.

Former managers Kenny Dalglish, Roy Hodgson and Ray Harford were also on the guest list.

Representing the town were Blackburn with Darwen Council leader Malcolm Doherty and chief executive Phil Watson. From his adopted island, representatives from the state and honorary police services attended, together with club officials from First Tower, Jack's 'other' football club.

Only family and close friends could fit into St Brelade's, said to be one of the most beautiful churches on the island and set next to a breathtaking beach.

Outside the ancient church, hundreds more listened to the service in a specially erected marque, the church hall and a tiny chapel.

The family arrived in a fleet of five black limousines.

Hundreds more were seated in a specially constructed marquee and in the church hall.

The service, conducted by the rector of St Brelade's, the Rev Noel Carter, was relayed outside through a public address system installed specially for what was the biggest funeral seen by the island for many years. Jack's wife Carole led the family mourners and the service was followed by a private family cremation at St Helier Crematorium attended by his children, Ross, Lynda, Howard and Michaela, and their partners and brother Fred.

Former steel business colleague and family friend, David Brown, addressed the congregation and said Jack never lost the common touch.

And he spoke of Jack's determination to be a success in everything that he did.

"He had a picture of Winston Churchill giving his victory salute on the wall of his office. Churchill made a great impression on Jack Walker and he tried to follow his determination."

Rovers supporter, retired Blackburn GP and long time Blackburn Lions stalwart Dr Alan Rebello read six verses from John chapter 14. Jack Walker was a member of Blackburn Lions when Dr Rebello was president more than 25 years ago.

Outside the church a bouquet of flowers from Blackburn Rovers' staff, directors and players simply read: "To our number one fan."

Another, from Fred Walker said: "To a dear brother."

From daughter Lynda and son-in-law Richard: "With all our love. From son Ross: "Thank you so much for you love and kindness. Don't worry I will keep up the good work!"

A two-foot square flower arrangement was sent by staff and managers at Jack's airline British European with the message: "You were an inspiration to us all."

Two East Lancashire holidaymakers who were friendly with Jack back in the 60's watched guests arrive outside the church.

Harry, 78, and wife Marion, 78, Hanson, of Simonstone, are in the middle of a break on the island.

Harry said: "He was a real gentleman.

"He was a very kind man and we wanted to come along to his funeral to pay our respects."

Former Rovers manager Roy Hodgson travelled to the service today from Denmark where he is manager of FC Copenhagen. He said:"I only knew Jack for 18 months but he was a real gentleman, first class person and I am very sad at his death."

As guests arrived outside the picturesque church, security guards prevented anyone but close family and friends from entering the church.

Planning such a major funeral had been a huge operation for funeral directors Pitcher & Le Quesne.

In addition to seating 250 in the church, a marquee had been constructed to seat 400. A further 170 were accommodated in the church hall and 70 in a fisherman's chapel attached to the church.

A reception for family and close friends was held at the nearby L'horizon hotel after the funeral.

Only family flowers were requested with donations to a childrens' cancer charity.