The below is a statement on behalf of Sir Tom Finney’s family.
“We would like to offer our sincere thanks to everyone who has shown us such kindness and support and shared in our sorrow over these past two weeks.
“We have been truly overwhelmed by the warm tributes, touching comments and heartfelt messages of condolence. A great comfort at the saddest of times.
“The people from here in the proud city of Preston to right across our nation and overseas and to all those involved with Preston North End FC and the football community at large.
“Friends and colleagues, always there, ready and willing; and thousands of others, many of whom we did not know personally, who have joined together with us not just in grief but in also celebrating a life so well lived.
“The wonderful turn-out for the civic funeral service epitomised just what dad meant to everyone and he, like us, would have found it a humbling experience.
“Thank you all.”
Brian and Barbara and the Finney family.