Photo journal: Belfast mourns George Best

Many men in attendance wore dark suits and ties as if at a family funeral, and many women held single red roses or carnations.

Many noted the unique sense of unity the occasion had generated.

Robert Crossett, from the Shankill area of Belfast, said: "He was the best in the world bar none. He is a legend to us.

"I idolised the man. I remember seeing him play against Holland in 1976. It's the first time this country has ever been united like this for a funeral."