Shane MacGowan funeral – latest: Johnny Depp, Bono and Bob Geldof give readings at Tipperary service
The Fairytale of New York singer will be given a private cremation in Nenagh
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Thousands of mourners including Irish leaders and the country’s biggest celebrities have gathered to pay their respects to Shane MacGowan, the iconic singer of The Pogues, on Friday.
The irrepressible frontman, known for songs including “Fairytale of New York” and “Pair of Brown Eyes”, died last week aged 65. Songs by the band are already playing on loop in the town of Nenagh, where a public mass will be held on Friday at 3.30pm ahead of a private cremation.
It comes after his widow Victoria Mary Clarke said the cause of Shane’s death was pneumonia. MacGowan had suffered from a number of health issues over the years, and had recently been discharged from hospital in Dublin, where he was being treated for encephalitis.
She posted: “Shane hated funerals and he refused to go to them with a few rare exceptions.
“So it’s incredible to think that so many people want to come to his and that so many beautiful people are pouring their hearts and souls into making it magnificent and magical and memorable for him and for us who are left behind.”
Actor Aidan Gillen gives the next reading: Revelations, Chapter 22, Verses 1-3.
Time for another musical performance – this time, it’s Mundy and Camille O’Sullivan, singing “Haunted”. The crowd are joining them in singing.
Dave Coon, Victoria’s father and Shane’s father-in-law, gives a reading.
Johnny Depp has arrived at Shane MacGowan’s funeral. Depp was a close friend of the Pogues star, and attended his wedding to Victoria Mary Clarke in Copenhagen in 2018.
Another of Shane’s beloved items: an autographed Johnny Depp record.
Victoria Mary Clarke is speaking, introducing symbols of importance for Shane MacGowan, including a Buddha, due to his interest in many religions; a Tipperary flag; and his book of songs and poems.
Fr Pat Gilbert holds up MacGowan’s book of poems.
The church erupts in applause as the musicians finish, with many watching on the livestream commenting that the performance left them in tears.
Imelda May and Declan O’Rourke sing an emotional rendition of “You’re The One”.
Former Teachta Dála of Ireland Gerry Adams is delivering “words of gratitude” for MacGowan, in the service’s first reading.
Now, a white sheet covers the coffin, topped with red roses, a picture of young Shane MacGowan and a depiction of Christ on the cross in silver.
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