Boxing hero Frank Bruno saw his former wife and their children yesterday as he continued to undergo tests after being sectioned under the Mental Health Act.

Hospital staff were deluged with hundreds of goodwill messages for the former world heavyweight champion, who also received bouquets, and backing from tooting motorists.

Bruno was admitted to a psychiatric hospital on Monday night after police officers last night helped in removing the 41-year-old from his home, near Brentwood, Essex, according to sources.

Close associates of one of Britain's most popular sportsmen said Bruno needed some rest and would remain in hospital for as long as necessary.

Friends also said Bruno had struggled to cope with life following retirement.

It has been reported that he is battling depression and is said to have previously received treatment at the Priory clinic in Chelmsford, Essex.

Bruno also recently underwent a costly and emotionally draining divorce from his wife, Laura.

The death of boxing friend and mentor George Francis also hit him hard.

He was transferred into the care of a local mental health NHS trust, at Goodmayes Hospital, Ilford.

The North East London Mental Health Trust would not comment, but Bruno's friend and agent, Kevin Lueshing, said: "Frank is in hospital for a bit of time to get some rest and help. He will stay there as long as it takes to get him back on track.

"He is going to be examined today and they will do various checks.

"Joan (his sister) is concerned but glad he is in the right place in getting the help he needs," he said.

"We are getting messages all the time, wishing him well from people within boxing and people who just know Frank. They have sent messages saying, 'Give him my best regards'.

"Frank will be happy the public are on his side."

Commentators, former boxers and other promoters were among those who expressed their sadness.

Promoter Frank Warren said: "I think this is very sad but, hopefully, the start of something good for Frank."

Former boxer Barry McGuigan said he thought successful boxers should get counselling when their careers ended. He said of Bruno: "I think it all sort of gathered pace and finally the poor guy has just cracked. He's a very sensitive creature, he's a lovely big bloke," he said.