Hundreds of strangers give RAF veteran a send-off

John Gray's coffin was carried into the crematorium by armed forces representatives

Hundreds of people have come together to pay their respects to a 91-year-old RAF veteran who died without family or friends to attend his funeral.

An appeal was launched for mourners following the death of John Gray, of Boldon Colliery, South Tyneside, last month.

Ex-servicemen joined members of the public, some of whom had travelled from as far away as London, for the service at South Shields Crematorium.

My Way by Frank Sinatra was played along with the theme tune to Mr Gray's favourite TV programme, Only Fools and Horses.

Funeral director Richard Dalton had posted the plea online, saying "only a few photographs were found" among Mr Gray's possessions.

With about 600 people attending, the venue was full to capacity and many mourners had to stand outside.

Mr Gray had served in the RAF

RAF veteran Gary Richardson, chairman of the British Legion branch in Seaham, County Durham, described turning out as a "no brainer" after having seen the appeal on Facebook.

"We had to be here," he said. "When the military family comes together it's brilliant.

"There were a few members of our branch here and I feel very proud.

"It is poignant for me that John was in the air force, but it doesn't make much difference where he served."

Crowds lining both sides of the road looked on as military representatives marched to the service

A total of 19 standard-bearers including veterans from the army, navy and RAF gathered.

About 20 bikers also followed the coffin with riders who served in the army among them.

Both sides of the road were filled with onlookers as the procession made its way into the crematorium.

Floral tributes made reference to Mr Gray's military service

A short eulogy was read which described Mr Gray as a keen traveller and a devoted son to his mother, Francis.

In his later years he lived at Sycamore Care Home in Boldon where he enjoyed following racing and eating raspberry rolls.

A specially composed piece of music was also played, paying tribute to his military service.