HUNDREDS paid their last respects today to Accrington Stanley’s ‘number one fan’.

The funeral of 33-year-old Antony Cox at Accrington Crematorium was standing room only, with every corner of the chapel filled and many more crowding in the grounds as the service was held.

On its way to the crematorium, the cortege had stopped outside the home of Antony’s beloved team for a final visit to the Crown Ground.

Continuing on to the Oaklea Tavern, supporters and mourners were waiting for the procession, with 40 vehicles joining the cortege.

Arriving at the crematorium, Antony’s father and brother walked ahead of the cortege, wearing Stanley shirts backed with the words 'RIP Bro' and 'RIP Son'.

Mourners, including Accrington Stanley chief executive Rob Heys, wore red and white, with many wearing Stanley shirts, as requested by the family.

Humanist minister Edward Joyce said it was Antony’s character and personality which had defined him and which now led to such a show of grief from so many.

Speaking at the funeral, Antony’s brother Dwayne said his brother was also his best friend.

He said: “He was my best man and godfather to my children.

"I remember when we were at school, Antony played Oliver Twist and ever since then I have loved the film.

"He would always phone me up whenever it was on. When I got the call to say Antony had died, I felt my world had fallen apart.

"I can’t believe my big brother has gone.”

The former Rhyddings High School student had worked at Holland’s Pies and at S. G. Aluminium before becoming the landlord of the Tinker and Budget pub in Oswaldtwistle 18 months ago.

Minister Mr Joyce added: “He was a generous man, a thoughtful man, a popular man.

"He was a loyal supporter of Accrington Stanley - their ‘number one fan’ - and he was loved by many”.

The committal of Antony’s coffin took place as ‘Cart on Accrington Stanley’ played, followed by You’ll Never Walk Alone as mourners inside the chapel joined those outside.

As classical piece Claire de Lune came to a close, a close circle of Antony’s relatives and friends released dozens of red and white balloons, each with a message for ‘Coxy‘ attached to the string.

Antony was killed on Monday August 30 after being struck by a train near Church and Oswaldtwistle Station.