'The life and soul of the game' - Man City and Liverpool FC legends unite to bid farewell to Francis Lee

Manchester paid farewell to one of its greats as the life of Manchester City legend Francis Lee was celebrated. A former City player and chairman, Lee was also an England international of 27 caps, with over 250 appearances for Bolton Wanderers and Derby County either side of his glittering spell at Maine Road.

Lee sadly passed away earlier this month at the age of 79, with famous names from across the footballing world paying tribute at Manchester Cathedral this week.

Former teammate - and fellow member of City's famous trinity - Mike Summerbee was present at the ceremony, along with Liverpool legend Graeme Souness, ex-City defender Micah Richards, and former City player and manager Joe Royle. Iconic commentator Barry Davies was also in attendance.

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"He was a top man. They don't come any better," said former teammate Tony Book as he arrived at the cathedral.

"I met him in my Bath City days when we drawn against Bolton in the FA Cup. I had the job of trying to mark Francis … some player! And a good lad as well.

"We were a good side [at City], you know. We took some beating. The Bell-Lee-Summerbee thing was magic. If you had them three in your side you knew you were going places."

Dozens of fans lined the streets outside Manchester Cathedral as Lee's cortege arrived, with flowers spelling out 'Lee 7', 'Grandad', and 'Dad' accompanying his coffin. Hundreds were inside the cathedral for the service.

Lee was carried into the funeral by brother Trevor, sons Nik and Jonny, and three close friends, followed by family members and then the fans who were invited in